Here is the first study from our Lent Bible study series. It happened over a pancake meal in the tradition of Shrove Tuesday. Incase you have missed it you might enjoy this reflection for yourself at the eve of Lent. You can read an introduction to Lent at the bottom of this page. https://www.ehillschurch.com/sundays-february-april-2/
Introduction:
The day before Lent starts is Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Tuesday. It is a day of celebration and eating up all the rich food in your house before fasting or eating more simply during the season of Lent. It is also known by the French term Mardi Gras, meaning ‘Fat Tuesday’ celebrated in many places with parades, costumes, dancing, and music.
‘Shrove’ means your sins are forgiven. Many years ago people would go to church on this day to be shriven – to confess their sins and be forgiven in preparation for a season of drawing closer to God.
Enjoy eating pancakes together and share any ways in which you or someone you know have fasted. In what ways did this help you or others to grow spiritually?
Reflection:
Read aloud Isaiah 58:1-12. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+58:1-12
Invite the Spirit to speak to you as you soak in this scripture on fasting. What do you appreciate and admire about God in this passage? Share your thoughts or pictures.
Lenten challenge:
Spend a few moments prayerfully reflecting on what you might put away, set aside or take up this spring season in your life. Share these thoughts with each other. Throughout the week you may like to pray about and refine your fasting challenge. Lent begins on February 18.
Closing Prayer:
‘Develop in me a Longing that is Unrestrained’
I ask you, Lord Jesus, to develop in me…
an immeasurable urge towards you,
an affection that is unbounded,
a longing that is unrestrained,
a fervour that throws discretion to the winds!
The more worthwhile our love for you,
All the more pressing does it become.
Reason cannot hold it in check,
Fear does not make it tremble,
Wise judgement does not temper it.
Richard Rolle
