Join Us in Prayer for Our Schools

At Cumberland United Methodist Church, we are committed to lifting up our local schools in prayer. Every weekday at 11:30 AM, we gather to pray for students, teachers, staff, and families in the Central Indiana area. We invite you to join us in this time of encouragement, support, and unity as we seek God’s guidance and protection over our schools.

THE PURPOSE OF LENT:

Lent is a season in the Christian calendar that calls us to a time of deep reflection, repentance, and spiritual renewal. It spans 40 days (not counting Sundays) leading up to Easter, the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. This sacred season invites us to examine our relationship with God, reflect on our faith, and prepare our hearts for the joy and hope of Easter.

Reflecting on Our Faith

Lent is a time to pause and reflect on the love and sacrifice of Christ. It encourages us to take a closer look at our spiritual journey, considering how we are living out our faith and where we can grow. As we reflect on the life of Jesus—His humility, His compassion, and His sacrifice—we are invited to renew our own commitment to following Him.

Throughout Lent, we take time to acknowledge where we have fallen short and where we need God’s forgiveness. This season of repentance is not about self-punishment, but about recognizing the grace of God and allowing His mercy to renew our hearts and minds.

Repentance: Turning Toward God

Lent calls us to repentance—which is more than simply feeling sorry for our sins. Repentance is a change of heart and mind that leads us to turn away from things that separate us from God and turn toward His love, forgiveness, and grace. It is a time to let go of distractions, sinful patterns, and anything that hinders our relationship with Christ.

In the act of repentance, we embrace the opportunity to ask God for forgiveness and commit to transforming our lives through the power of the Holy Spirit. This season reminds us that, through Jesus’ death and resurrection, we are offered new life—a fresh start each day.

Renewal: Preparing for Resurrection

Lent is also a time for spiritual renewal. As we fast, pray, and serve during this season, we open ourselves to God’s transforming power. Just as Jesus was resurrected, Lent offers us the chance to experience spiritual rebirth. We are called to live more fully into God’s purpose for us, dedicating ourselves to His work of love, healing, and justice.

Embrace Lent with Open Hearts and Hands

Lent is a time to go deeper in our faith, to turn away from distractions, and to focus on what truly matters: our relationship with God and our calling to serve others. This season, let us embrace the purpose of Lent—reflection, repentance, and renewal—and let us live out our faith through meaningful acts of service that bless the world around us.

As we journey through Lent, may we continually look to Christ as our example and find new ways to serve, love, and grow together in His grace.