Recently, our family conversations have centered on the importance of repentance and sanctification in our Christian faith. During this season of growth in my knowledge and understanding of these Christian virtues, I have encountered information in various forms about the observance of Lent.
I have never practiced Lent. I was only vaguely aware that it is something that Catholics or Orthodox Christians do. Suddenly, several days prior to the onset of Lent, I found myself surrounded by Lenten messages and symbols. They appeared in my email inbox, on church signs, and in conversations.
I did a little reading and learned that the 40 days of Lent (the 40 days prior to Easter) are a reflection of the 40 days that Jesus was tested in the wilderness by the devil. I also learned that on the first day of Lent, known as "Ash Wednesday," many believers place ashes on their foreheads. This symbolizes their sorrow over their sin that crucified Christ.
Many observe Lent by giving up something that is dear to them, as a way to keep their focus on Christ.
These concepts dovetailed beautifully into what I had been learning in Scripture about the importance of living a dedicated life. I decided to take a stab at observing Lent this year.
Then, on Ash Wednesday morning, I awakened with a severe, stabbing pain in my left side. The day progressed and the pain did not diminish. That afternoon, I saw the doctor, who asked if I had ever experienced a kidney stone. I said that I had, and then the light flashed on. I was in the midst of an "episode."
Later that night, while lying uncomfortably in bed, I considered the symbolism of suffering on Ash Wednesday. I had been learning about mortifying the flesh, had just decided to give up my on-line addiction (Pinterest) for the 40 days of Lent, and then...BAM! I got hit with some genuine suffering.
Today, as I lay in bed with my heating pad and my LARGE glass of water, a friend texted me this verse:
"...may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you." ~1 Peter 5:10
This is my Lenten prayer.
If you are interested in learning more about the observance of Lent, I found these resources to be helpful:
And for a wonderful resource for ideas on sharing Lent with your family:
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