Counters of scriptural references have cited 146 incidences of the number 40 in the bible. For example, in the time of Noah, it rained 40 days and 40 nights; Moses spent 40 years in the desert escaping Pharaoh’s death penalty after killing the Egyptian; the Israelites wandered around in arid lands before entering the promised land; and this first week’s Gospel reading focuses on Jesus being lead into the wilderness where his priorities, sense of self and faith were put to the test.
Lent begins and we find ourselves embarking on a forty-day grace-filled, spiritual journey. “Why 40 days?” you may wonder. The season of Lent is traditionally observed as a time of conversion and renewal. Recalling that renewal is synonymous to rebirth may help us grasp the underlying significance of forty. Pregnancy is customarily measured as 40 weeks.* Thus, forty takes on a symbolic meaning in reference to the process of our spiritual rebirthing.
On the internet, I found the Vatican’s English translation of the Pope’s Lenten message. In his message Francis reminds followers that Lent urgently calls us to conversion. He is quick to remind us that Lent is a favourable time for deepening our spiritual life through the tried-and-true means of fasting, prayer and almsgiving. We would be wise to reflect in what new ways we might give expression to the essence of these traditional practices in our times?
In another web article referring to the topic – Put Your Best Self Forward** three key points were highlighted in reference to approaching situations, other people and life confidently. It sparked me into wondering whether these same three watchwords, “Walk lightly, Stand tall and Just breathe”, might aptly hold us in good stead as we embrace Lent this year.
Might Walk lightly be a gentle appeal to divest ourselves of needless anxiety, the overabundance of consumer goods and ready ourselves to convey hope and compassion to others.
Might Stand tall be an encouragement to rest assured that the God of Goodness beholds us as beloved.
Might Just breathe be an invitation to slow down, to be still and tune into God’s loving wisdom for us.
As you continue your Lenten journey may you grow in confidence that you are a MIRROR reflecting the goodness of Love to those who are your companions on the journey.
Nancy Wales, CSJ
*Human gestational length averages 38 weeks (8.74 months) from conception. However, pregnancy is customarily measured from the date of the last menstrual period — about 2 weeks before conception. By this scale, pregnancy lasts 40 weeks, or 9.20 months. https://www.quora.com/Why-do-people-say-a-pregnancy-is-a-nine-months-when-it-is...
**Put Your Best Self Forward- www.gokhalemthod.com/blog/57518