It’s been said that when people are facing death, they get serious about life. They look back and reflect on the most important things. They look ahead and ponder the unknown future. And they take a moment to pass along their last words to those closest to them.

As Jesus entered Jerusalem the last week before he went to the cross, the people hailed him as a king. A few days later, they would sentence him as a criminal. Did they realize who he really was? Is it possible they missed God standing right in front of their eyes? Is it possible that we do as well?

If you grew up in liturgical church, you’re probably familiar with the tradition of Lent. But you may not have understood exactly why your church observed it. Or, perhaps Lent simply felt like a ritual to you with little to no relevance to your daily life. If you didn’t grow up in the church, or in a church that celebrated Lent, it may be a foreign concept for you. With all that in mind, and even though New Denver Church isn’t a “liturgical” church per se, we want to encourage you to think about celebrating Lent this year. Here’s a little bit of background.

The death and resurrection of Jesus are at the heart of the gospel message. That’s why Good Friday and Easter Sunday are two of the most significant times for followers of Christ. Lent is the season of preparation and repentance before Easter during which Christians anticipate the meaning of the cross and resurrection. Just as we carefully prepare for big events in our personal lives, such as a wedding, graduation, or a big move, Lent invites us to make our hearts ready for remembering Jesus’ passion and celebrating his resurrection.

The practice of a forty-day preparation period began in the Christian church during the third and fourth centuries. The number forty carries biblical significance based on the forty years Israel spent in the wilderness and Jesus’ forty-day fast in the wilderness. The forty days of Lent begin on Ash Wednesday (February 17) and continue through “holy week,” not counting Sundays (which are considered days of celebration).

Historically, Christians have celebrated Lent as a time to focus on deepening their relationship with God through fasting. The practice of fasting can take many forms. Most often, fasting from certain foods and/or drinks is encouraged. You may choose to skip a meal or two each day during Lent (assuming you don’t have any health considerations that would prohibit this). Some fast from specific things such as meat, caffeine/coffee, alcohol, processed foods, sweets, or beverages other than water. Others fast from “distractions” like watching television; the internet, Facebook/Twitter or email; reading books, magazines or newspapers; shopping; or listening to music. None of these things are bad in and of themselves, but any of them can become overly important in our lives. The idea is to abstain for a time from these subtle but powerful influences and refocus our attention on our relationship with God.

At New Denver Church, we’re beginning a new message series entitled Last Words on February 21 where we’ll look at the last things Jesus said before he went to the cross. During this season, we encourage you to consider celebrating Lent by fasting in some way that will challenge you. Share what you are doing with a friend or your small group and talk about what you learn throughout the process. Even if you wouldn’t call yourself a Christian, consider giving Lent a try. You may be surprised by what you experience. Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, may this be a special season for you as you seek to find purpose and meaning in your life through a deeper relationship with God.

Just as a reminder, starting February 21st we will be moving to a new location, Bonnie Brae Church (700 Bonnie Brae Blvd)

New Denver has committed to provide fifteen volunteers in the second week of February – five spots on Friday, February 12th and ten spots on Saturday, February 13th. To sign up to serve with us go to the Future Faith Network volunteer website. Move fast, because these slots will surely fill up fast. If all the slots are filled, feel free to go ahead and sign up for any future build days designated for New Denver or open to all churches in the network. Or you can check out one of our other local partners to find another opportunity to join us to worship God by serving together in the community.