Sacred Seasons

by Heather McAnear

Embracing sacred seasons like Advent and Lent (celebrating, meditating on and mourning key events in Jesus’ life) as more than a single event holiday has become a special part of my year. God knows we need intentional times of quiet reflection and regular reminders of His faithfulness, otherwise one day flows into the next month, on into the next year.

Lent typically begins in February (depending when Easter falls that year), with a 40-day fast and daily reflection on Jesus’ sacrifice. This reorients my spirit as I ask the Lord to draw me close and purify my heart. The calendar year ends with Advent, the anticipation of our Savior’s birth and His second Advent when He returns. It can be tempting to view the other months (post-Easter through Thanksgiving) as simply “normal” life, but that’s the beauty of understanding the Christian calendar. There’s so much more to celebrate!

If Christmas is the celebration of the Father sending His Son to save the world, and Easter is the celebration of the Son willingly giving His life, Pentecost is the celebration of the blessed Holy Spirit indwelling all believers (John 14:26, Acts 2). Through this power, Peter preached the gospel and thousands believed and were baptized! The church was forever changed—we are forever changed!

Jewish history has much to teach us about times of intentional reflection throughout our year, as we look at the observances throughout their year. To learn more, go to www.councilroadwomen.org/calendar for info on our summer Bible study, 7 Feasts!

Author Bio
Heather McAnear is a wife, mom, author and speaker with a passion for sharing God's truth to help people use it for God's glory. She also hosts the Uniquely Beautiful Stories podcast on iTunes. She loves teaching young married couples with her husband, homeschooling their three children, traveling the world, enjoying good chocolate and long conversations in coffee shops. CRBC has been her church home for two decades.