I know what some of you are thinking. Lent? Is that what I get out of the dryer before the next load of clothes? We’re not accustomed to it. We celebrate Christmas, Easter, even Thanksgiving. But Lent. Lent is the 40 days leading up to Easter. Catholics religiously practice it. Some protestant churches do, some do not.

A (very) brief history. Lent started soon after the Apostles. One early church father, Irenaeus, who was a spiritual “grandchild” of the Apostles (he lived only two generations after Paul and Peter) referenced to it as having occurred even before his time! But why? Scholars believe it was inspired by the example of Jesus himself, who fasted for 40 days and nights.

Lent is a time of fasting. It is a time to give something up. Traditionally it has always been connected with food. It doesn’t have to be. At Grace we have been focusing on “One Bold Move.” What One Bold Move would God have you make in 2024 that will change the trajectory of your walk with the Lord?

So to help each other carry out our One Bold Move, we are coming together around the cross. We will celebrate Lent together with two questions.

What will you stop doing? In other words, what will your fast be? Food? Video games? Facebook? Instagram? A hobby that’s gotten out of hand. The Lord will make it clear to you what you should stop doing.

What will you start doing? What practice is missing from your walk with God? Daily prayer? Daily time in the Word? A weekly journaling time? A desperately needed family time? A commitment to be in church services every Sunday? Joining a Life Group?

You’ll receive a tiny cross to put in your pocket. It’s not a good luck charm. It’s a reminder of the one who gave up his life to give us ours.

If you choose, you’ll receive a daily devotion. A daily reading, leading up to Easter that will prepare your heart, strengthen your resolve, and point you unceasingly to the cross. As your pastor, I’m excited to see how God is going to transform your lives (and mine too!) from the inside out.