Lent is a time of preparation and reflection. Many Christians give something up. Others create a new habit in order to share in Jesus’s life of service and self-denial. As you consider how you will observe Lent this year, here are three activities you might want to consider.

Read

Lent is a 40-day spiritual journey based in Scripture. The number 40 carries great significance in the Bible. It’s how long Moses stayed on Mount Sinai in the presence of God (Exodus 24.18). It’s how long the Israelites wandered in the wilderness (Numbers 14.33, 34). It’s how many days Jesus prayed and fasted in the wilderness (Matthew 4.1,2). And it’s the number of days we observe Lent today.

Consider entering God’s story for yourself over the next 40 days by signing up for this Lenten devotional via email or text.

“Jesus returned from the Jordan full of the Holy Spirit and was led by the Spirit into the desert, where he was tempted by the Devil for forty days.” Luke 4.1,2 (GNT)

Reflect

Lenten traditions are full of symbols that we can reflect upon to help us prepare for Easter. Palm branches recall Christ’s entry into Jerusalem and the beginning of his Passion. Many Christian church traditions burn palm branches from the previous year and place the ashes on the foreheads of the faithful to remind them that death is inevitable and that one day their physical being will return to dust or soil.

The color purple represents repentance and a purple cloth often will cover the cross during Lent in many churches. The crown of thorns reminds us of Christ’s physical suffering. For many, a fish is a symbol of fasting and abstinence observed throughout Lent.

“You were made from soil, and you will become soil again.” Genesis 3:19 (GNT)

Respond

Finally, we can respond to Scripture during Lent is by exercising spiritual discipline, based on Jesus’s instruction to his followers. We can do this by focusing on acts of charity, prayer and fasting as we prepare for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection.

“And your Father, who sees what you do in private, will reward you.” Matthew 6.18 (GNT)