Some of us came from liturgical backgrounds, where the rituals of church life might have felt rote and meaningless — and for others, beautiful and meaningful. Some of us came from no background at all, so learning church history and tradition are new and exciting -- and intimidating! And we women across the spectrum here, gathering across traditions and practices, to celebrate Jesus together. It’s one of our favorite things about the Grace family!
Today is Ash Wednesday, which is the beginning of Lent in the traditional church calendar. Lent is roughly a six week period between Ash Wednesday and Easter, a time dedicated to prayer and fasting. Lent is marked by intentional repentance and fasting, both of which are recognized in a variety of ways in different church traditions. As writer Tsh Oxenreider says, Lent is about “remembering how dependent we are on our Maker while we live here in our temporary, fragile bodies”.
We’ve compiled a few resources for those of you interested in learning more about what the season of Lent is and could look like in your life!
Remember: Lent is in invitation. It’s not a command. You might sense God’s prompting to actively learn and participate; you might be comfortable leaning in to what God is already doing in your life and not taking on a new spiritual practice. Trust the indwelling Holy Spirit in this!
LENT RESOURCES: TO READ
A Lent FAQ read by The Daily Grace Co. (They also offer a full season guide)
If you have kiddos, this guide from Little Way Chapel is helpful!
A beautiful daily devotional for Lent from Tsh Oxenreider
“How Lenten Fasting Prepares us for Eternity”, article by Amy Gannett
On the spiritual practice of fasting, by Practicing the Way
Journey to the Cross, a devotional by Paul David Tripp
LENT RESOURCES: TO LISTEN
“Lent for Tired Women”, podcast with Jess Connolly
A Spotify playlist for the Lenten season
A lenten podcast series with Ann Voskamp
On lent and fasting, with Annie F. Downs “That Sounds Fun!” podcast
One more Spotify playlist, “Bitter & Sweet”
A GBC sermon on fasting, from Pastor Dustin
A GBC sermon on prayer, from Pastor Cam & Sarah Beth
Nothing like a mid-week resource gush to fill our love tanks… and we hope you’ll find something here you can use and/or learn from!
OH — if you’re curious about the traditional church calendar, check out the image below to learn more about how the historical Christian church has recognized seasons throughout the church calendar.