Today is Ash Wednesday, which for most Christians marks the first day of Lent. Today is the day that begins our preparation for Easter and the celebration of the Lord’s resurrection.
The 40 days of lent reflect the 40 days that Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness before beginning His ministry. During those 40 days, He was tempted three times by the devil, but repudiated Satan’s lies with the words of Scripture.
Over the coming weeks, we are called to follow Christ’s example through prayer, self-denial, atonement for our sins, and works of charity. Lent is a time to reflect on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus and how that should inform our every thought, word, and deed.
Ash Wednesday itself is a solemn reminder of our earthly mortality, informed by the promise of Easter and our knowledge that Christ died so that we might have eternal life. Many of us observe Ash Wednesday by going to church, fasting, and/or spending time in prayer.
However you observe Lent, I hope that you find your spiritual reward in this season of reflection and repentance.
