Lent: A Season of Reflection, Repentance, Redemption, and Renewal

Lent, the sacred 40-day period leading up to Easter (Resurrection Sunday), invites believers into a profound journey of self-reflection, repentance, redemption, and renewal. It is a time for Adherents of the faith to heed the apostle Paul’s exhortation to “work out their own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12).

This year, Lent begins on Wednesday, March 5th (Ash Wednesday) and culminates on Thursday, April 17th (Maundy Thursday). Throughout these 40 days, believers are called to a deeper relationship with God through fasting, sacrifice, steadfast prayer, scripture readings, and regular, weekly church attendance.

A Journey of Transformation
During this season, the believer embarks on a transformational journey. Like stepping into a flowing river that is never the same, the seeker is changed—renewed in heart, mind, and spirit. What once seemed like the destructive shoals of life are transformed from roadblocks to stepping stones, as the believer grows closer to grasping the powerful truth that “Pain is the high cost of growth.”

Symbols of Lent: A Deeper Understanding
Did you know that there are five significant symbols of Lent? Each holds a profound meaning for this sacred season:

1. Ashes – A sign of mortality and repentance, reminding us of our need for God’s mercy and grace.
2. Pretzels – A humble Lenten snack symbolizing arms crossed in prayer and the simplicity of the season.
3. Violet/Purple – Representing both the passion of Christ’s suffering and the royalty of His kingship.
4. Fish – A traditional symbol of fasting and sacrifice.
5. Money Bags – Representing almsgiving and the call to charity during Lent.

These symbols may seem peculiar, but they serve as powerful reminders of the inner work taking place within every seeking follower. More peculiar still is the transformation of the heart, mind, and spirit that occurs during this season of surrender and growth.

As we enter this sacred time, let us embrace the opportunity to reflect on our lives, repent of our sins, and renew our commitment to God. Through this Lenten journey, may we be transformed into vessels of love, grace, and purpose, ready to celebrate the joy and victory of the Resurrection.