Lent is a significant season in the Christian calendar, marked by reflection, prayer, and penance. Traditionally spanning 40 days, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and culminates on Easter Sunday. This period offers believers an opportunity to deepen their faith and renew their commitment to spiritual growth.
One of the central themes of Lent is self-examination. Engaging in practices like fasting or giving up worldly pleasures can foster a greater sense of awareness and discipline. These practices serve not only to commemorate the sacrifices of Jesus but also to cultivate a spirit of humility and dependency on God (Lange, 2017). As Richard Foster noted in "Celebration of Discipline," the disciplines of fasting and prayer can help cultivate a deeper relationship with the Divine (Foster, 1998).
Moreover, Lent encourages acts of charity and service. Engaging in community outreach or supporting those in need can help shift the focus from self to others, embodying the call to love one’s neighbor. As the Apostle Paul reminds us in Galatians 5:13, “serve one another humbly in love.”
To effectively honor Lent, consider creating a personal plan that includes daily prayers, scripture reading, and acts of service. Engaging with fellow believers through small groups or church activities can enrich this journey and provide communal support.
Ultimately, Lent is a time to reflect deeply on one's faith and actions. As we prepare our hearts for Easter, may we honor this sacred season through genuine introspection and acts of compassion.
References
Foster, R. (1998). *Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth*. HarperOne.
The Holy Bible, New International Version. (2011). Biblica.
Louisa Mastromarino is a certified counselor educator and Licensed Spiritual Health Coach. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications, a Master of Science Degree in School Counseling, and a post master’s degree in Supervision and Educational Leadership. Louisa is the author of Spifford Max and the Cycle Pups Go to Washington, D.C., Spifford Max and the Cycle Pups Go to New York City, Spifford Max and the Cycle Pups Go to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Brizzley Bear Loves Poetry and additional publications. Louisa's work has been highlighted in the noted publications Careers from the Kitchen Table by Raven Blair Davis and Miracles in the Divine by Beverly Pokorski. For distant appointments in spiritual coaching email distantholistic@gmail.com. Thank you.
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