As the season of Lent begins, many Christians feel the gentle tug of God’s Spirit inviting them to slow down and prepare their hearts. It’s a time of reflection and renewal, an opportunity to set our gaze on Jesus and the life-changing events of Easter. But Lent is more than just a tradition or a religious practice. It’s a gift—a chance to grow closer to God and align our hearts with His.
Lent is a forty-day journey. It mirrors the time Jesus spent fasting and praying in the wilderness before His public ministry. He set an example for us of seeking the Father with all His heart. During these weeks, we’re invited to step away from the noise of life and focus on what truly matters. Lent calls us to remember who God is and who we are in Him.
The heart of Lent is preparation. It’s about getting ready to celebrate the victory of Easter—Jesus’ triumph over sin and death. But this preparation isn’t just about outward actions. It’s about letting God work in our hearts. Lent is a time to pause and ask, “Lord, what do You want to do in me? What do You want to show me about Yourself?”
One of the ways people observe Lent is through fasting. Fasting isn’t about earning God’s favour. It’s about creating space for Him. When we set something aside—whether it’s a meal, a habit, or a distraction—we make room for God to fill us with His presence. It’s a way of saying, “Lord, You are more important to me than anything else.”
But Lent isn’t just about giving something up. It’s also about taking something on. We can use this season to deepen our prayer life, spend more time in God’s Word, or serve others in meaningful ways. Lent invites us to draw near to God and let Him shape us. It’s a season of saying yes to Him in new and deeper ways.
At its core, Lent is about transformation. It’s a time to allow God to search our hearts and renew our minds. It’s about turning away from sin and turning toward the abundant life Jesus offers. It’s a chance to let go of anything that’s holding us back and step into the freedom and joy that come from walking closely with Him.
As we prepare for Easter, Lent helps us see the cross in a new light. It reminds us of the incredible love Jesus has for us. He willingly laid down His life so that we could be free. Lent gives us time to meditate on that love and respond to it. It’s a chance to surrender our hearts to Him and live in gratitude for all He’s done.
Lent also reminds us that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves. Christians around the world observe this season, each in their own way. We join with brothers and sisters in Christ as we journey toward the cross and the empty tomb. Together, we remember the hope we have in Jesus. We’re reminded that we’re not alone—we’re part of God’s family.
This season calls us to live with purpose. It’s a reminder that our lives are meant to reflect the love and grace of Jesus. As we prepare for Easter, we can ask ourselves, “How can I show His love to the people around me? How can I be a light in my community?” Lent isn’t just about personal growth. It’s about letting God’s work in us spill over into the lives of others.
As we walk through Lent, let’s take time to listen to God. Let’s ask Him to show us what He wants to do in our lives. Let’s invite Him to lead us, to guide us, and to shape us into the people He’s called us to be. This season is a journey, and God promises to walk with us every step of the way.
Imagine what could happen if we embraced Lent with open hearts. What if we allowed God to work in us in new and powerful ways? What if we used this time to draw closer to Him and to love others more deeply? The impact could be life-changing—for us and for the people around us.
This Lent, let’s commit to seeking God with all our hearts. Let’s use this time to prepare for Easter in a way that honours Him. Let’s invite Him to work in us and through us, trusting that He has good things in store. Lent is a season of hope, a reminder that God is always at work, making all things new.
As we journey through these forty days, let’s remember the promise of Easter morning. Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. Let’s walk with Him, trusting that He will lead us into the abundant life He has for us. Lent is an invitation to go deeper with God. Let’s say yes to Him and embrace all that He has for us.
