God likes to use numbers to talk to his people. The number twelve represents completion–twelve tribes of Israel, twelve disciples. Seven is the number for perfection–God created in seven days. The number eight is the start of something new–eight people were saved on the ark, Jesus rose on the eighth day. God’s fondness for numbers is also why the early church fathers chose forty days as the period of fasting before Easter that we now call Lent. We can find 40 days in the Bible all over the place!
40 Days in the Bible
It rained for forty days and forty nights during the flood. The Israelites wandered in the wilderness for forty years before entering the promised land. Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness for forty days to be tempted by Satan. All these “forties” represent periods of testing when a person or group of people was forced to rely on God during a particularly trying time. Perhaps you are going through your own “forty days” that have nothing to do with Lent. But know this, God is in control of all forty day periods. Trust in him and hold fast to his promises because we all know what happens on day forty-one!
Lent Resources for the Classroom
Observe the forty days in your classroom and teach you students to rely on God for their every need by taking a look at Teach by Faith’s great Lent resources! This flip book in particular makes a great lesson for first or second graders who are just beginning to understand what Lent is all about. It is fun to construct, color and read and makes a great supplement to a lesson on the temptation of Jesus!
If you are looking for more ready-to-use resources for your students, check them out in my store.
Looking for related articles? Check out:
Psalm 51: A Powerful Psalm of Repentance for Kids
Unique Lent Activities for Your Classroom
18 Excellent Ways to Serve during the Lent Season
Looking for more related articles from other authors? Check out:
Lenten Devotions :: Lutheran Hour Ministries
