When does Lent start and end?

Lent is a significant period in the Christian liturgical calendar, observed by many denominations as a time of reflection, repentance, and preparation for Easter. Its origins and practices are deeply rooted in Christian tradition, and understanding when Lent starts and ends can enrich our appreciation of this sacred season.

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, a day that derives its name from the practice of placing ashes on the foreheads of the faithful as a sign of repentance and humility. The ashes are typically made from the blessed palms used in the previous year's Palm Sunday celebration. The imposition of ashes is accompanied by words such as "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return" (Genesis 3:19) or "Repent, and believe in the Gospel" (Mark 1:15). Ash Wednesday falls 46 days before Easter Sunday, which includes 40 days of fasting and six Sundays, which are not counted as part of the Lenten fast.

The duration of Lent is traditionally 40 days, reflecting the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness, enduring temptation by Satan (Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, Luke 4:1-13). The number 40 is also significant in other biblical contexts, such as the 40 days and nights of rain during the flood (Genesis 7:12), the 40 years the Israelites wandered in the desert (Numbers 14:33), and the 40 days Moses spent on Mount Sinai (Exodus 24:18). This period of 40 days is intended to be a time of spiritual discipline, self-examination, and renewal.

Lent ends on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday. However, the observance of Lent is intricately connected to the events of Holy Week, which begins with Palm Sunday, commemorating Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-44, John 12:12-19). Holy Week includes several key days:

1. Maundy Thursday: This day commemorates the Last Supper, where Jesus instituted the Eucharist and washed the disciples' feet as an act of service and love (John 13:1-17, Luke 22:14-20). The term "Maundy" comes from the Latin word "mandatum," meaning "commandment," referring to Jesus' command to "love one another as I have loved you" (John 13:34).

2. Good Friday: This solemn day marks the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. Christians around the world reflect on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus, acknowledging the profound love and grace demonstrated through His willingness to die for humanity's sins (Matthew 27:32-56, Mark 15:21-41, Luke 23:26-49, John 19:16-37).

3. Holy Saturday: This day represents the time Jesus' body lay in the tomb. It is a day of waiting and contemplation, as believers anticipate the joyous celebration of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Easter Sunday is the culmination of Lent and the most important day in the Christian calendar. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, affirming the victory over sin and death and the promise of eternal life for all who believe (Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-18).

The observance of Lent varies among Christian traditions. For instance, in the Roman Catholic Church, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday, excluding Sundays from the fasting period. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, Lent, known as Great Lent, begins on Clean Monday, seven weeks before Easter, and ends on Lazarus Saturday, the day before Palm Sunday, followed by Holy Week.

Lenten practices also differ among denominations. Many Christians engage in fasting, prayer, and almsgiving as ways to draw closer to God and prepare their hearts for Easter. Fasting may involve giving up certain foods or meals, abstaining from particular activities, or adopting a simpler lifestyle. Prayer and meditation on Scripture are central to deepening one's relationship with God, while acts of charity and service to others reflect the love and compassion of Christ.

The purpose of Lent is not merely to endure hardship or deprivation but to experience a transformation of the heart and spirit. It is a time to confront our own sinfulness, seek God's forgiveness, and renew our commitment to living as followers of Jesus. The themes of repentance, humility, and renewal are woven throughout the Lenten journey, inviting believers to grow in faith and holiness.

In contemporary practice, some Christians choose to give up certain luxuries or habits, such as social media, television, or sweets, as a form of modern fasting. Others may take on additional spiritual disciplines, such as daily Bible reading, attending special Lenten services, or participating in small group studies. The goal is to create space for God to work in our lives, drawing us closer to Him and preparing us to celebrate the resurrection with joy and gratitude.

Lent is a season that calls us to slow down, reflect, and realign our lives with the teachings and example of Jesus. It is an invitation to enter into the story of Christ's passion, death, and resurrection, allowing it to shape and transform us. As we journey through Lent, we are reminded of the depth of God's love for us and the hope we have in the risen Christ.

In summary, Lent starts on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday, encompassing 40 days of fasting, prayer, and reflection. It is a time of spiritual preparation for Easter, inviting Christians to repent, renew their faith, and embrace the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice and resurrection. Through the observance of Lent, believers are drawn into a deeper relationship with God, experiencing His grace and love in profound ways.