Cross of Christ Lutheran Church

“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted there by the devil.  For forty days and forty nights He fasted and became very hungry” (Matthew 4:1-2 NLT).

Jesus went into the wilderness and fasted for forty days before beginning His ministry.  It was for Him a time of reflection and preparation.  During the forty days of Lent, we join Jesus in being led by the Spirit.  We too use the time to reflect on all that He has done for us, as well as prepare for the journey that lies ahead. 

Lent consists of the forty days before Easter, and it begins with Ash Wednesday.  Why “Ash” Wednesday?  Well, in ancient times, when Christians mourned their sins and repented of them, and they would often exhibit their sincerity by having ashes on their foreheads.  This practice continues in many Christian churches as they observe Ash Wednesday, which happens to be today.

Prayer and fasting have also played an important role during the season of Lent.  In the wilderness, Jesus did both.  Today individuals will often choose to give up something during the forty days of Lent, much like giving up food when fasting.  I know of someone who is giving up soda, something she really loves but knows isn’t necessarily good for her.  The idea is that when she craves it, she can pray instead of drinking a Diet Coke.  It’s simply a way of meeting physical needs with spiritual nourishment, something we should do every day of the year.

Whether or not you choose to give something up for Lent, use these forty days as an opportunity to meet with God as you reflect on where He is at work around you.  And as we join with Him, may we be reminded that we don’t live on bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4 NLT).