“Lent isn’t about forfeiting as much as it’s about formation.” -Ann Voskamp
For those of you who, like me, didn’t grow up celebrating Lent there is much to learn, and much to celebrate. Jesus Christ’s 40 days of fasting in the desert are the spiritual foundation for the season that begins on Ash Wednesday.
Thomas Merton wrote, “Lent is not just a time for squaring conscious accounts: but for realizing what we had perhaps not seen before.β
Lent officially began February 10th, but we know it’s never too late to worship, or to discover new ways to worshipping, even if we didn’t grow up celebrating the Lenten season.
Below are three resources I LOVE and have used. I hope you’ll share yours in the comment section!
{A Free 40 Day Lent Devotional Journey, Ann Voskamp}
{Tim Keller, Redeemer Presbyterian Church}
Topical Daily Lent Readings
I’m using Ann Voskamp’s free 40 Day Lent Devotional this year. I wish I’d started on the 10th, but I didn’t, so I will begin where I am.
Here are some quotes on Lent to consider during this season, and every day:
βThe goal of fasting is inner unity. This means hearing, but not with the ear; hearing, but not with the understanding; it is hearing with the spirit, with your whole being.β Fr. Thomas Merton
βLord, have mercy on me! β¦ I make no effort to conceal my wounds. You are my physician, I your patient. You are merciful; I stand in need of mercy.β St. Augustine
βThe steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.β Lamentations 3:22-23
Do you have a go-to resource for the Lenten season, or what is one way you choose to prepare your heart for Easter?Β
Wow am I behind. Actually I haven't celebrated b lent since giving up candy as a kid but now I'm looking forward to a defined act of worship. Thanks for the suggestions
Me too, Marcia. π I've only celebrated Lent in recent years myself, not having come from a liturgical type background. I hope one of the four will work for you. π Thanks for stopping by and sharing!
I hate to admit it, Cathy, but I've never practiced Lent. Maybe this would be a good time to start. I'm sure I'd love the Ann Voskamp book!
Right now I'm using the new The Imitation of Christ, edited for today's language by our friend, James Watkins. I'm enjoying it. Really makes me think…
I know nothing about Lent really. I was told it was something Catholics do 40 days before Easter. That they give up something they like. But I don't know why. Interesting that there books on celebrating Lent that aren't by Catholic people–Tim Keller for instance.
I'd like to read that book, Vonda. I'm sure if it's by James it has to be good. I believe as long as we're focusing on Christ that's what matters most. π If you decide to try Ann's (I love that it's free), let me know what you think.
Blessings!
Hi Ellen! I'm still learning about it myself, but Ann's web page has a beautiful description of Lent. For me, I can appreciate and embrace the deeper meaning of the celebration. I see it as another way to worship and focus on Christ, especially as we move closer to Easter. Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing! Let me know if you decide to try one. π
I grew up in a Nazarene church & we always celebrated lent by foregoing something. I love this Reverse Lent Challenge! I'm pretty late to the game this year & am not sure I can add one more thing to my plate, but I'm going to try! And I definitely want to do it next year. Thanks for this neat little round up, Cathy!
Thank you, Heather, for stopping by and sharing! I let it slip up on me too so I plan to jot down the start date for my 2017 calendar. Whenever you try the reverse challenge, let me know what you think.
Blessings and much love from SC to you!