The Significance of “40” and Beyond

The Significance of “40” and Beyond

by Ian Mascarenhas

   The # 40 has great significance in our Bible stories – 40 days of rain in the story of Noah and the great flood, 40 years of wandering in the desert by the Israelites in the Exodus (from slavery) story and 40 days that Jesus spent in the desert (includes getting tempted by Satan) before beginning His public ministry.  Another “40” that we don’t normally hear about is that is the # of weeks for a woman’s normal term pregnancy.  In each instance there was/is more life that followed/follows than we could have previously imagined.

   So when we look at our Lenten experience, these 40 days we spend are meant to help us get closer to God.  It is sometimes described as a desert journey.  Like the effect of sandpaper, we are rubbed for a smoother finish.

   Our relationship/connection with God and our family/friends/community needs developing and strengthening.  We are the Support Group for each other, encouraging and building one another up.

   Now that we are beyond Easter it is our opportunity to continue what was begun through our Lenten journey.  Don’t just revert back to those pre-Lent practices.  The whole point is to make the changes lasting.  That is why it becomes “more life beyond.”

   We are alive, and meant to thrive.  Eternal life is the opportunity handed to us; we must continue to do our part.