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Lent is a period of fasting, moderation, and self-denial. It begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with Easter Sunday. The length of the Lenten fast was established in the 4th century as 46 days (40 days, not counting Sundays). Lent is based off of Jesus’ time in the desert, in which for 40 days He fasted and prayed and was tempted by the devil before angels came and tended to Him. It’s six weeks of self-discipline.
When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
- Matthew 6: 16-18