“Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship. And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].
Romans 12:1-2 Amplified Bible
Observing Lent is a time of sincere repentance. It is 40 sacred days set aside to draw nearer to GOD, praise and worship GOD more, and read and study your Bible more. Most of all, it is a TIME to PRAY more. If you choose to observe Lent, you will experience deeper intimacy and a refreshed closer relationship with the LORD.
Forty days is not a short period. It’s equivalent to one month and ten days. Sacred Lent is a season of prayer, fasting, and giving. We have often heard that Lent is a time to fast, pray and sacrifice. But, we selectively forget to teach Holy Lent is a time to GIVE too.
Holy Lent is a preparation period to observe the LORD’S Resurrection at Easter solemnly. A simple formula to observe Holy Lent is:
For those Christians who wish to observe Lent, they are free to do so.
The master key is to focus on repenting your sins and consecrating yourself to GOD.
Holy Lent should not be a time of boasting of your sacrifice or trying to earn GOD’S favor.
Because Christians already have favor with GOD. Here’s one truth that proves you already have favor from GOD. Psalm 5:12 declares, “For You, O Lord, bless the righteous man [the one who is in right standing with You]; You surround him with favor as with a shield.”
Remember:
The season of Holy Lent is not patented for Catholics only. It is a TIME for all who choose to draw closer to GOD.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly FATHER,
Thank you for allowing for the season of Holy Lent to be an opportunity to draw nearer to you. May your Holy Spirit be our anchor as we draw nearer to you.- Amen, in JESUS’ Mighty name.
O. M. Nugget:
“LENT IS A SEASONAL SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE FOR A DEEPER ROOT IN GOD.”
Expository Reading:
Romans 12:1-2
Matthew 27:26-35
Food For Thought:
“What if we view this desert time of Lent as not just a time to reflect or to lament or to confess or to fast, but a time where we learn to be free.” -Megan Westra