The season of Lent is upon us. If you’re not familiar with the meaning of Lent, have you wondered what it’s all about? Perhaps you’ve seen people with an ashen cross on their forehead on Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. Or maybe you’ve heard the word “Lent” used in the media, in a church, or elsewhere.
Lent is the 40-day period leading up to Easter. It’s a time of reflection, self-examination and denial (or “detox”) that Christ-followers participate in to prepare for Easter.
Many Christians will give up or “fast” from something during this time to help focus on their spiritual health and relationship with God. I’ve known many who stopped using social media for these 40 days as a way to unplug, become more present with family, and spend time in prayer and reflection.
Lent provides a time for us to think about our spiritual health, a “spiritual detox” you might say.
One Lenten season I gave up eating potatoes. I love potatoes: fried, julienned, scalloped, or mashed. You name it; if it’s a potato, I’ll eat it.
During that particular Lent, each time I saw someone eating potatoes or prepared them for my family, it was a visual reminder to think about God, my relationship with Him, and the death and resurrection of Jesus to be celebrated on Easter.
How about you? Are you willing to give up or let go of something in your life for 40 days? Are you ready to make room for a journey of prayer and reflection to grow healthier spiritually? You don’t have to give up something major, just something you enjoy doing or eating so you instead can focus on your spiritual life.
Join us for a special Lenten series called “40 Days to Freedom.” Find inspiration and be challenged every day of Lent on the Stonecroft Detox Facebook page. “Follow” us, then click “See First” so you don’t miss a day!
Dear God, as I focus on my journey toward spiritual health, help me to look deep within myself, let go of the old and embrace the new life that comes from you.
Nancy Sprowls
Outreach Specialist
Detox