Dear Church,
One of the greatest opportunities that we have as Christians is to live our lives in such a way that it brings God glory. “I seek not mine own glory, but the glory of him who sent me.” (John 8:50) and “Father, glorify your name.” (John 12:28). Thomas Watson said, “It is one thing to advance God’s glory, another thing to aim at it. God must be the ultimate end of all actions.” This Lent let’s aim with all we have to glorify our God and be a light here in the Bega Valley.
Lent is a period of fasting, moderation, and self-denial; a tradition I believe is good for our soul and spiritual growth, it can also have physical benefits. It begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with Easter Sunday. The length of the Lenten fast was established in the 4th century as 46 days (40 days, not counting Sundays). During Lent, you may fast in a number of different way BUT the aim shall be always to bring God glory and draw near to Him. You may eat sparingly or give up a particular food or habit or electronic device, or TV show and spend that time in prayer or reading Scripture. It’s six weeks of self-discipline.
The self-denial of the Lenten season was seen as similar to how people in the Old Testament fasted and repented in sackcloth and ashes (Esther 4:1-3; Jeremiah 6:26; Daniel 9:3). There may be something you want to specifically pray for during Lent. Always remember the Bible teaches that grace cannot be earned; grace is “the gift of righteousness” (Romans 5:17). Jesus taught that fasting should be done discreetly: “When you fast, do not look sombre as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen” (Matthew 6:16-18).
My hope is that you also join a Bible Study group and make the most of the Bible Study series I have written called, ‘Master, Me, Mission’. All the very best in Christ this Lent.
Peace and Joy in Christ. Rev. Capt. Stuart Haynes
