March 5 is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent in the world of the Christian church. I always like to know why we do things - whether in the church or around us in the world. So I am sharing a bit of history and a few traditions that are part of Lent. 

First: Where did the word LENT come from? It comes from an Anglo-Saxon word (Old English) meaning “spring” or “springtime”. Literally, that is the time of the year when the days lengthen. And the word LENT became the word used for the time in the church year when God’s people are invited to take the time to learn more about GOD and their relationship to God and to others. Lent is experienced as a time of preparation, reflection, growth, and change in faith. The color purple is the liturgical color used in churches that observe this tradition.

Second: Our Christian faith centers around Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, and ascension. Easter focuses on Jesus’ death, resurrection and ascension, just as Christmas focuses on Jesus birth as a baby. Lent became a time for all Christians to prepare for the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ - 40 days of preparation from Ash Wednesday to Easter. It also became the time when people prepared for baptism, which happened on the eve of Easter. Some groups of Christians follow this practice today. 

Third: Through time, the harsher demands and expectations of the weeks of Lent have been changed. People today look to Lent as a time of growth and change. Fasting or restriction of favorite foods or activities is still followed by many Christians through the weeks of Lent. Others spend more time in prayer and meditation; and others focus on what can they do for others -sharing God’s love in meaningful ways. 

There are many ways a family can experience together this time of preparation, reflection and growth. During our Lenten services we will be experiencing and sharing ways we can grow our faith through prayer, meditation and showing love to others - both near and far. Be creative as you consider how this LENT can be experienced differently this year. There are many kinds of ideas on the internet - if you aren’t sure one is within Christian values, I am here and happy to help any family work on Lenten planning. 

El Shaddai, Jehovah God, 

we marvel at the way you use us human beings as your heart, arms, feet, voice, - all of each of us - in your holy work! Give us your Holy Spirit and turn us from our own selfishness. Make us sensitive to the needs of others. In Christ, Amen.