The season of Lent is practised by many denominations of Christianity, most notably, Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, Lutheran and Methodist.

This is a 40 day period in the lead up to Easter of fasting, deep prayer, and denying ourselves luxury in order to live with simplicity and develop a more intimate relationship with God. It imitates the 40 days our Lord Jesus spent fasting in the desert and the trials and tribulations he experienced whilst being tempted by Satan (Matthew 4:1-11) (Mark 1:12-15)

We find many Biblical references to 40 days of fasting, Moses did it three times! For reverent worship, putting his faith in God to be sustained by spirit alone. The second time was to intercede for Israel when he would receive the commandments. (Exodus 34:28)

We also find 40 days and 40 nights as the endurance and purification process in Noah’s Ark. (Genesis 7:4)

Lent is a time of spiritual growth for Christians as we give up our trivial indulgences and call upon the Lord. The historical practice of Lent can be found as early as the 2nd century, but it was officially formalised at the Council of Nicaea in 325AD.

Ash Wednesday and Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday will always fall on the Sunday before Easter. It is a Holy day which honours Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey with humility. He was greeted by crowds waving palm branches, a custom for welcoming a new King. (John 12:13) (Matthew 21:9)

Jesus’ entry to Jerusalem fulfilled the prophecy of Zechariah.

Ash Wednesday begins the Season of Lent and correlates with Palm Sunday, the branches from the previous year are saved, burnt, and used on Ash Wednesday.

A sign of the cross is marked on parishioners’ foreheads for a variety of reasons. Many kings and prophets would cover themselves in ashes when crying out for repentance and used the practice as a symbol of redemption. We see this in The Book of Daniel when he covers himself in ash and sackcloth pleading repentance for his people.

(Daniel 9:3)

(Genesis 3:19) (Isaiah 61:3)

It symbolises our sinful nature, but by the grace of God we embrace the mercy of our saviour.

Spiritual Food

As Christians, Lent can be a challenging experience, but it is also an opportunity for spiritual development and reflection as we call out to the Lord in times of struggle and perseverance.

The cycle of Lent represents denying ourselves, leaning on the Lord for strength and resilience, and a resurrection and renewal of our connection to God.

Practices will differ slightly depending on denominations, but the living purpose of Lent can and should be embraced in some way by all practising Christians.

If we bare in mind the sacrifice made by our Lord Jesus Christ, we can rest well in the comfort of his shelter and draw closer to him this season.

NHPUK pray for all your intentions and growing relationship with the Lord during this Holy period.

God bless and may the Lord be with you!