At this time of the year, many Christians are observing Lent.
According to the Bible, Jesus went to the desert and fasted 40 days and nights. Christians describe Lent as a 40-day season of reflection, prayer and fasting, starting from Ash Wednesday and focusing on spiritual preparation for Easter. Key observances include giving up luxuries (social media, sweets), increasing almsgiving or service, daily devotionals and deepening prayer life.
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Augustine Institute describes Lent as a time when Jesus chose the desert to fast and pray; a quiet and good space to reflect with no distractions.
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- Fast and Abstain: Traditionally, this involves abstaining from meat (especially on Fridays) or fasting from specific comforts like caffeine, alcohol, sweets or fast food.
- Give Up Distractions: Reduce or eliminate time spent on social media, streaming services, video games or shopping.
- Add Spiritual Disciplines: Incorporate daily Bible reading, prayer, journaling or using a Lenten devotional.
- Acts of Charity (Almsgiving): Dedicate time to volunteering, donating to charity, or performing daily acts of kindness to serve others.
- Silence and Reflection: Spend 5–10 minutes daily in silence or meditation to listen for God, perhaps focusing on a scripture verse.
- Repentance and Confession: Focus on personal spiritual growth, recognising brokenness, and seeking God’s mercy
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