(I'm totally scooping this from someone else. She's an amazing writer and storyteller and I was lucky enough to have lunch with her a couple of years ago. I love Margaret Feinberg...read everything she writes, you won't be sorry!)
The Latin word for "lent" is "Quadragesima", which basically translates to forty. Hence, the forty days between Ash Wednesday and Easter.
This is what Margaret has to say about it:
"Originally, Lent was designed as a time of preparation and worship for the believer. The forty days before Easter were set aside for penitence, prayer, and self-denial.
The number forty has repetitive significance in the Bible.
It rained for 40 days when Noah was on the ark (Genesis 7:17). Moses spent 40 days on Mt. Sinai(Exodus 24:18). The Israelites spent 40 years wandering in the wilderness before entering the Promised Land (Numbers 14:33). Elijah spent 40 days walking to Mt. Horeb (1 Kings 19:8). Jesus fasted for 40 days and was tempted by Satan (Matthew 4:1-2). Ever notice that God has a track-record of displaying His mighty wonders in increments of forty?
Beginning on Ash Wednesday (which falls on February 13nd, this year), many people choose to give something up for 40 days in this season of preparation.
But as I suggest in Wonderstruck, maybe the question we need to ask as we enter Lent isn’t, “What are you giving up for Lent?” as much as “What do you want to lay hold of during Lent?” [Tweet this]
The wonders of God are waiting for you during Lent. This season is laced with opportunity that will stir your hunger to know God more. [Tweet this]
How will you lay hold of the wonders of Lent?
Beginning on February 13, we have the opportunity to spend 40 days passionately pursuing God. You. Me. Everyone we can bring along for the joyous journey.
How will you choose to seek God during this time?
What expressions will your desire for God take?
What do you want to lay hold of in greater measure through Lent?
Tomorrow I’ll share what I’ve been prayerfully considering for this season.
But today, I’m challenging you, sweet you, to take some time today to ask God what He’s calling you toward. In past years, I’ve given up contempt, committed to pray three-word-prayers, and more.
What will you do for Lent 2013?"
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