The Lenten Season

By Rev Dr. Emmanuel E James

We celebrate, observe and commemorate several events and occasions during the Christian Year. This is based on the life of Jesus, His birth, death, resurrection and ascension and other events.  The Lenten Season originated during the fourth century A.D. It lasts for 40 weekdays beginning on Ash Wednesday and concludes on the Saturday before Easter. We celebrate Sundays to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. The six Sundays that occur during Lent are not counted as part of the 40 days of Lent, and are referred to as the Sundays in Lent.

The number 40 is an important number in the Bible. Many biblical events are connected with this number such as the Great Flood (Gen. 6), the Israelites ate manna for 40 years (Exodus 16:35). Moses spent 40 days and nights on the mountain with God (Exodus 24:18). Elijah travelled for 40 days and 40 nights to Mount Horeb (Sinai), (1 Kings 19:8). Our Lord fasted and prayed for forty days before He began His public ministry (Matt. 4:1-2).

Originally, Lent was the time of preparation, concentrated study and prayer before their baptism during the Easter Service. They were new members to be received into the Church and the entire community was also called for preparation. This was also the time when those who had been sent out from the Church for violations of Church discipline. They were also prepared to rejoin the Church.

Penitential prayer, fasting, and almsgiving have traditionally marked the Lenten season. Some Christians observe a schedule of fasting on certain days during Lent, mostly on Fridays. They give up of meat, alcohol, sweets, and other types of food. Others do not place great emphasis on fasting, but focus on Bible reading, prayer and meditation. Some help those in physical need with food and clothing and the needy by giving them money.

Most Christians observe Lent as a time of repentance for failures and sin recognizing the need for God’s grace. It is really a preparation to celebrate God’s marvelous redemption at Easter. Lent is a time of prayer and preparation to celebrate Easter.

Lent is a time of spiritual renewal. Let us prepare ourselves to participate in the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

•          Reconsider the suffering and death of our Lord. He paid the price by laying down His life on the cross voluntarily on behalf of each one of us.

•          Resolve to celebrate Easter with renewed joy and enthusiasm as we celebrate the victory of Jesus over sin, death and the devil.

•          Resolve to make changes in our life and in our family where necessary so that our life can reflect the victorious life of Jesus.

(This message is taken from the book ‘Meditations for Lent’ written by Rev Dr. Emmanuel E James. This book contains: Weekly Themes for Meditations, The week of Ash Wednesday, Jesus and me. 2) First week in Lent: Our Priorities 3) Second week in Lent: Prayer. 4) Third week in Lent: Forgiveness. 5) Fourth week in Lent: Prayer. 6) Fifth week in Lent: Self-examination. 7) Sixth week in Lent: Self-surrender. 8) Holy week: Sacrificial Love and Triumphant Power 9) seven sermon sketches for Seven Words of Jesus.

Those who would like to have copy of this book may contact: Rev Dr. Emmanuel James. M: 09242278044 OR Bro. Edwin James – 09820354911.)