The word “Lent” is from middle English- length. It recognizes the lengthening of the days (northern hemisphere) moving toward the yearly remembrance of the ministry of Jesus leading to the cross. For centuries Christians have used this period to reflect upon the sufferings and ultimately the saving works of God in Jesus Christ through his death on the cross.
For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. — 2 Corinthians 4:5,6