A Season to Refocus

In the weeks that lead up to Easter, many believers begin to think about Lent—a season that can feel mysterious, beautiful, or even a little bit confusing depending on your background. For some, it’s a deeply meaningful time marked by intentional prayer, fasting, and reflection on Christ’s sacrifice. For others, especially those who didn’t grow up with the liturgical, or ‘Christian’ calendar (see ‘9 Things You Should Know About the Christian Calendar’), the idea of Lent might seem foreign or even unhelpful. Yet at its best, Lent is meant to help us pause, examine our lives, and focus our hearts anew on the wonder of the cross.

The Purpose Behind Lent

It’s important to remember that practices like fasting or giving something up aren’t meant to earn God’s approval—but to help us remember our deep need for Him and to clear away distractions (Matthew 6:16-18). When we approach Lent with humility, using the time to repent, pray, and build spiritual habits, we’re letting God shape our hearts in quiet, often overlooked ways (Psalm 51:17). Fasting isn’t just an old ritual; it’s an opportunity to hunger for more of God, just as Jesus expected His followers would (Matthew 6:16-18).

Motives Matter Most

Still, it’s wise to consider our motives. If observing Lent ever starts to feel like a way to put ourselves right with God, or to impress others, we’ve missed the point. Our acceptance before Him rests fully in Jesus and His finished work—there is no added measure of grace we gain by our efforts (Ephesians 2:4-5). God’s love for us is steadfast, not reliant on our rituals or willpower. Christ Himself has wiped away our condemnation, embracing us fully as His own (Romans 8:1).

Living Near to Christ

So whether or not you and your family observe Lent, let the season stir you to draw near to Christ each day—not just for a few weeks, but as a regular rhythm of your life. Let Lent be a gentle prompt, not a spiritual burden. However you practice, remember: what matters most is not the tradition itself, but the nearness of your heart to the Savior who loves you.

Verses Referenced:

• Romans 8:1
• Matthew 6:16-18
• Psalm 51:17
• Ephesians 2:4-5