This is the first in a series of messages embracing Lent in the lead-up to Easter 2026. The practice of Lent has ancient roots in early Christianity. From the earliest practices of fasting in preparation for Easter, Lent has developed as a recognition of the significance of the “40 days” pattern that occurs in many places in the Bible. In particular, we focus on Jesus’ 40 days spent in prayer and fasting in the Judean wilderness in preparation for his public ministry (Matthew 4:1-11).
Sometimes in the Pentecostal church we don’t give much attention to older church traditions, but there are some beautiful things about giving time and space to look at ancient pathways to connect with God in deeper ways. The purpose of Lent is to bring us on a journey to the cross of Jesus Christ, and to help us be prepared to pick up and carry our own cross and die to ourselves as we live for Jesus.
Jesus said, “If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.
Matthew 10:38-39 (NLT)
Serious words. Are we ready to lay down the ownership and control of our own life, so that we may trust Jesus, follow him in all things and in so doing, receive the eternal and blessed life that God wants for us?
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