Lent Family Worship Guide

Because Resurrection Sunday, better known as Easter Sunday, seems to sneak up on us every year, we want to encourage you and your family to slow down and prepare your hearts for the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection. If this sounds familiar, it’s because that’s the heart behind the season called Lent.

Lent is a 40-day season leading up to Easter that has been observed by Christians for centuries, though many of us may not be familiar with it or have grown up practicing it. While Lent isn’t something biblically commanded, it has roots in the early church calendar. By the 4th century, Christians began using these 40 days to reflect on Jesus’ journey to the Cross, modeled after His 40 days of fasting in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). It became a time for prayer, repentance, and preparation, and even a celebration for new believers being baptized at Easter. While it isn’t necessary, Lent can serve as a helpful rhythm for slowing down and focusing on Christ as we prepare to celebrate His resurrection. It’s not about obligation, but about making space to grow closer to Jesus.

Over the last few years, I have personally observed Lent using Sinclair Ferguson’s book To Seek and To Save. This devotional has been a rich resource in helping me reflect on the Scriptures and the people Jesus encountered on His way to the Cross. I hope you and your family will enjoy this book and the accompanying Lent Family Worship Guide we’ve created for you as a tool for growing together during this meaningful season.