How to Observe the Lenten Season

The Lenten season marks a forty day period. It begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Good Friday for Protestants while Catholics end the season on the Thursday before Easter. The Eastern Orthodox begins on the seventh Monday before Easter. Sundays aren't counted for Protestants and Catholics but are for the Orthodox. Lent is a time of reflection and sacrifice with a focus on the work of the cross.

Things You'll Need

• Holy Bible
• Time for reflection
• Money for the needy

Instructions

1. Read and meditate God's holy word. This is a good time to read at least one Gospel book. Matthew, Mark, Luke or John each contain Jesus Christ's journey to the cross. Observe the life of Christ and what it means to you. Understand his sufferings on our behalf.

2. Focus on God's grace in your life. During the Lenten season write down the good things God has done for you and begin to refresh yourself with the hope of Christ.

3. Offer up prayers of thanksgiving. Realize the suffering Jesus did on his way to the cross and the reason why he was crucified on our behalf. The message is clear. Our sin needs forgiveness and a savior to reconcile us back to God.

4. Abstain in a symbolic manner of sacrifice. Give up something materially or physically gratifying. Some give up certain foods they enjoy. Others halt certain physical activities like sports. The intent is to meaningfully sacrifice while reflecting on the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross.

5. Probe deep into the mystery of life and death in relation to God. He sent his son to die in our place because of sin. The 40 days of observing the Lenten season is a time to observe our mortality and God's provision of eternity through his son. Study the crucifixion and resurrection passages in the Gospels.

6. Give to others. As Christ gave his life for those in need, likewise we should give to others. Send a check to your local food bank or shelter. Give your time helping others by contacting local volunteer agencies such as the Salvation Army. This done in the light of what the cross means to you.

7. Observe fasting. Even a one day fast while meditating on God and the significance of the suffering Christ is good for spiritual renewal.

8. Rejoice in the resurrection. Lenten observance is over. This is the victory for all people who believe. Sing with a heart of gratitude from a humble mindset. For Christ overcame the world and through him we overcome our own frailty and mortality, understand this event in the context of your life.