Lent, the forty days leading up to Easter, begins tomorrow, Ash Wednesday. In this episode of The Open Door Sisterhood Podcast we talk about the tradition of practicing Lent, how it fits into the Church's liturgical year, and how it reflects the natural world's rhythm of moving from winter to spring and the spiritual rhythm of waiting for the Resurrection.
Lent may feel unfamiliar to you or it may hold undertones of legalism. You may just know it as the time of year you give up something you like because you "should", a challenge of sorts. This conversation helps us frame the intention behind Lent. The practice includes three pillars: fasting from something, adding something, and giving during Lent. When these three things are done in tandem we get the rich experience of practicing Lent in a way that builds anticipation toward Easter.
Tsh covers how to use practices with our kids, how her new book, Bitter & Sweet can be a guide, and how to be realistic as we introduce new practices into our rhythms. It's not too late to decide to make Lent different this year. You can add some intention to your days so that you are turning toward God as you consider Holy Week and all we remember and celebrate.