The penitential season of Lent, which means “spring” in Latin, invites us into a time of deep spiritual growth as we prepare for Easter. This year, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 18, marking the start of a 40-day journey focused on daily repentance and renewed devotion to following the way of the cross.
Ash Wednesday is a response to the call from the Old Testament prophet Joel: “Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.” Traditionally, ashes symbolize mourning over the reality of sin and death, reminding us, “Dust you are and to dust you shall return.” Our hope in deliverance rests solely with Christ the Redeemer.
The 40 days of Lent, not including Sundays, echo the period of Jesus’ testing in the desert, where He faced the devil’s temptations to avoid the suffering and death central to His divine mission. Many Christians see Lent as a time for self-denial, giving up indulgences to walk more closely in Jesus’ footsteps and strengthen their faith.
At Bethlehem Lutheran Church, we offer special worship times on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm during Lent, starting with Ash Wednesday on February 18. This year, we’ll focus on the seven Penitential Psalms. As we gather, we experience the grace and compassion of Jesus, nurturing genuine faith and trust within our community. This journey culminates in a joyous celebration of our Savior’s resurrection on Easter Sunday.
