The word Lent comes from the Anglo-Saxon word lencton, meaning the time of year when the days grow longer. 

It is a time in the liturgical year that recalls the Desert Experience of Jesus. Recounted in the synoptic Gospels, this was the time after his baptism when Jesus went out into the desert to fast and pray, and to discern the nature of his mission.

Like the Israelites who spent forty years in the desert, Jesus was tempted. The temptations materialism, earthly power, trying to be God are universal. In one way or another they are faced by every human being. Jesus chose none of these. Instead, he chose service and suffering.  

As we live Lent through fasting, prayer and almsgiving we, like Jesus, are invited to engage in a process of discernment. How can we use our gifts and talents for the greater glory of God and the common good.  

In a world beset by war, violence and hubris, it can be very easy to give way to despair. Ultimately though, Christians are people of hope, and faith. Lent reminds us of this, as does this Jubilee year. Even in the darkest of times we are called to respond to the Gospel invitation to be God’s light in the world.  

This season’s Lenten reflections have been written by a range of contributors, including primary school pupils from St Joseph’s School, Hurst Green, Jesuits from a number of works around the Province, Gill Donoghue from JRS Myanmar, Sue Cawley from St Anselm’s Parish Southall and Jules Gibson from Stonyhurst College.

Together they create a mosaic of hope. They remind us of St Ignatius’ emphasis on reflecting on our lives, discerning where we find God present. Often, it is in the most unexpected places. 

We invite you to join in this Lenten journey of hope and pray for Jesuit Missions’ partners around the world, our sisters and brothers in Christ.  Each week we will share a reflection from one of our contributors, along with scripture and prayer suggestions.