The word “Lent” is connected to an old word for “spring.” The idea is that spring roughly corresponds to the approach of Easter, when Jesus rose from the dead.

Long story short: Lent has come to be known as a 40-day period of preparation (excluding Sundays) for the main event of the Christian faith: the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

The number 40 isn’t random. It comes up frequently in the Bible:

-It rained for 40 days and nights during the great flood that wiped out wickedness from the earth.
-Moses was on the mountain of God for 40 days and nights.
-The Hebrews wandered in the wilderness for 40 years.
-Prior to being tempted by Satan, Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights.

Forty is period of preparation for a new time and task under God.

Lent is acknowledged by some, and neglected by others. It’s not a big deal either way. But a productive way to think about it is this period of preparation for a new time and task under God.

What is God calling you to do in life? If there is something distracting you from this time and task, perhaps now is a good time to throw it off. If there is something you need to do to prepare, perhaps now is the time to focus your spiritual energies.

“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith” (Ephesians 3:16-17).

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Notes:

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.