Somto BisinaThe annual 40-day Christian observance of Lent began today, February 22. On this day churches will conduct mass where holy ash prepared by burning palm leaves will be smeared on the forehead of the visiting congregation.
Lent is a period of fasting and penance that comes to a peak during the Holy Week especially Good Friday which marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThis a very important season, as it helps prepare us for Easter. Most Catholics recognize Lent as a solemn period where we repent. As such, we might feel pressure to “improve” when it comes to prayer.
A great starting point for drawing closer to God and improving our prayer life during Lent is simply the desire to improve our prayer life during Lent.
This is Prime Business Africa’s Complete Guide for the Lent Season.
Short Lent Prayers
Short Lent prayers are an easy way to go from desiring to pray more during Lent to actually doing so. Palm Sunday features the first reading of the Passion of Christ before we hear it again on Good Friday. Holy Week also features Holy Thursday and the Easter Vigil, two liturgies that are unique and beautiful.
When we’re not at Mass, sometimes we just need short, simple prayers to remain close to God during our busy days.
Here are some easy prayers you can say to feel connected to God during Lent this year:
“God, may Your light guide my day, and your spirit bring me peace. Amen.”
“God, may my sacrifice of today of (state your Lenten sacrifice) remind me of my dependence on You for all the blessings I enjoy. Amen.”
”May I stand in solidarity today with all my brothers and sisters around the world who are suffering.
“May we be united in your love, and may I work to build your kingdom here on earth.”
“Heavenly Father, I’m truly sorry for the moments today where I missed the mark. I ask for your forgiveness and the strength to better follow Your call tomorrow. Amen.”
Lenten Bible Study: Verses to Reflect on
Just as short prayers can help enrich our faith lives during Lent, Bible passages can also help us reflect on and draw meaning from the season. As with short prayers, just because a Bible verse is not long or complex does not mean it lacks substance.
You can also consider these short Bible verses to reflect
“Then Job replied to the Lord: 2 “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted. 3 You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’ Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know. 4 “You said, ‘Listen now, and I will speak; I will question you, and you shall answer me.’ 5 My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. 6 Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.” Job 42: 1-6
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“By the sweat of your brow you shall eat bread, Until you return to the ground, from which you were taken; For you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Genesis 3:19
“So submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you of two minds. 9 Begin to lament, to mourn, to weep. Let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy into dejection. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will exalt you.” James 4: 7-10
7 Last Words
The seven last words, or sayings, of Jesus refer to the final phrases he gave us before he handed over his spirit on the cross.
Lent is a popular time to reflect on these words. Hallow will have plenty of prayer resources devoted to helping you spend time with Jesus’ final words.
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