Lent begins February 14, marking the start of a special time of spiritual renewal and reflection. Inspired by the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert before beginning his ministry, many Christ followers give up a specific food or habit for 40 days as a way to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross before they celebrate the joy of his resurrection.
Giving is also an important part of the Lenten tradition. And whether Lent is part of your spiritual practice or not, there are many ways you can spend this time before Easter preparing your heart for the greatest act of generosity in history.
Here are a few resources to consider:
- Lent in Plain Sight by Jill Duffield – This book will draw your attention to 10 ordinary objects Jesus would have encountered on his way to Jerusalem: dust, bread, the cross, coins, shoes, oil, coats, towels, thorns, and stones. Each week, you will encounter a new object to consider through Scripture, prayer, and reflection.
- Countdown to Easter by Annette LaPlaca – This classic online resource provides families 40 daily options, including Scripture readings, fun activities, discussion topics, and songs to help guide even the youngest children through the season.
- She Reads Truth has created this 2024 reading plan based on Matthew, which invites you to study the symbols and practices God instituted so that his people would not forget him. While the three-week study guide is available for purchase, the content (which will conclude with Holy Week readings) will also be available free of charge online at shereadstruth.com and will be discussed weekly on their podcast. A Lenten plan for men following the same content has also been created.
- Father Mike Schmitz: What should I do for Lent? – If giving things up for Lent seems a bit hollow, this article will give you a fresh approach. Beginning with the goal in mind – becoming more like Jesus – Father Mike’s practical advice on prayer, fasting, and almsgiving is focused on helping you become the person God is calling you to be.
- In his new book, It is Finished: A 40-Day Pilgrimage Back to the Cross, Charles Martin, author and Bible teacher, traces the power and necessity of the cross throughout the Bible by using storytelling to vividly portray what Jesus’ crucifixion accomplished.
- This Lent Companion ebook, written by Gary Hoag, president and CEO of Global Trust Partners, is designed to grow your understanding and practice the spiritual disciplines of giving, prayer, and fasting.
- He was There is a unique, 40-day reading plan created by World Relief which features a weekly rhythm that features Scripture, a spiritual practice, a testimony of Jesus’ redemptive power in the world, a time for listening for God’s voice, faith in action suggestions for putting feet to faith during this season of intentionality, and a day of rest and prayer. A family guide for those with younger children is also part of this Lent guide.
Of course, you can also use your cell phone to set alarms to remind you to pray, to meditate on Scripture, and to look for opportunities to give during the Lenten season.
We hope you’ll join us as we prepare our hearts for Jesus’ resurrection!
