I love the season of Lent. I enjoy going to church for mid-week services. Also, I like the contemplative songs and the focus on repentance, and I like the fact that the beginning of Lent means that Easter and spring can’t be too far behind. The season of Lent was established by the church at the Council of Nicea in 325 after it was decided how the date for Easter would be calculated each year. The church leaders determined that a 40 day fast should precede each celebration of Easter.
Lent Meaning
But if you’ve done some quick math you may have realized that Ash Wednesday is not 40 days before Easter. It’s actually 46. So what’s going on? The period of 46 days allows for 40 days of fasting and six Sundays. That’s right, Sundays are not part of Lent! Every Sunday worship service is like a mini-Easter. Jesus’ resurrection destroyed death forever so even when we try to have a 40 day fast focusing on our mortality and sin, Jesus’ triumph breaks through! Observe your 40 day fast dutifully, but don’t forget to rejoice whole-heartedly on Sundays because He is risen!
Classroom Resources
As we head into Lent do your middle schoolers have questions about this season? Maybe it’s time for a special lesson on the meaning and significance of Lent. Teach by Faith offers a great option! This Lent Sketch Notes Lesson introduces this season of the church year and looks at the traditions and Bible passages that are associated with it. There are fun doodles to color and lots of personal applications. It also includes a helpful answer sheet. Add it to your lesson plans for the coming month!
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
The Helpful Meaning of Ash Wednesday for Kids
Looking for more related articles from other authors? Check out:
Lenten Devotions :: Lutheran Hour Ministries
