What Is Lent?
Lent is a season lasting 40 days (46 days, including Sundays) that leads up to Easter. It begins on Ash Wednesday and concludes on Holy Saturday. Sundays are considered "little Easters," during which fasts can be broken to celebrate the Sabbath. Throughout these 40 days, Christians around the world devote themselves to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, in imitation of Jesus' 40 days of fasting in the wilderness, during which he was tempted by Satan. This season is marked by repentance, self-denial, and a reflection on our mortality.
**Three Pillars of Lent**
Traditionally, the church focuses on three spiritual practices during Lent: Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving (serving others). These practices are based on Jesus' teachings in Matthew 6:1-18, where he advises his followers to pray, fast, and give to the poor quietly, in contrast to the hypocrites who do so for attention.
This year, Smith Chapel is offering "The Road to Joy" (A Lent-to-Easter Devotional) to help you stay connected with Jesus. Printed copies are available at the church, or you can contact thechapel@live.com to request one.
