“Jesus had fasted for forty days and forty nights” Matthew 4:2

Today is the beginning of the season of Lent.  These are the 40 days leading up to Easter that have historically been for the development of our life in Christ.  New converts went through intensive training to become full members of the church.  People of faith would devote themselves to spiritual disciplines, prayer, fasting, worship, giving, serving, meditation, scripture and more, as part of a deeper commitment to grow spiritually.

It is healthy for us to have a season to focus more intentionally on the practice of our faith.  Following Jesus is not easy nor does it “just happen” when we decide to respond to the grace that brings us salvation.  This life of growing in Christ takes practice.  We need to practice the disciplines that develop the character of love in our hearts. 

How will you practice your faith in new and different ways this Lent? Please consider increasing your prayer life, joining a scripture study, try fasting, additional giving and perhaps serving in a mission of the church.  Also, we all need worship and there will be additional worship opportunities during Lent.  Tonight, there is an Ash Wednesday service.

My prayer for you is that the next forty days of Lent will bless you in wonderful ways.  These blessings will in turn bless and grow the Body of Christ the church.

Blessings,