Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Psalm 139:23-24)
Life doesn’t exactly ask us to slow down. Between work, family, responsibilities, and just trying to keep up, we can find ourselves running on fumes without even realizing it. That’s where Lent comes in.
Lent is the 40-day period leading up to Easter, a time when Christians around the world pause to reflect, reset, and realign their lives with God. It’s not about being perfect or checking religious boxes—it’s about making space. Space to hear God’s voice. Space to notice what we’ve been clinging to. Space to let go of what’s been holding us back.
Why 40 Days?
It mirrors the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness. He was tempted, tested, and stripped of comfort—but it was also a time of deep connection with God. Lent invites us into something similar. Not to suffer for the sake of it, but to step away from distractions and draw closer to the One who gives us real life.
It’s Not Just About Giving Something Up
People often give up things like sweets, social media, or caffeine. But it’s not about the “what” as much as the “why.” Giving something up can open space for something greater. Maybe you skip your morning scroll and talk to God instead. Or fast from negativity and choose encouragement. Lent can also mean adding something—like starting a gratitude journal, checking in on a friend each week, or spending 10 minutes in silence with God.
It’s About the Heart
God’s not impressed by how good we are at saying no to chocolate. He’s after our hearts. Lent is about returning to Him—letting Him reset what’s out of rhythm and remind us of who we really are: deeply loved, fully known, and never alone.
So whether you’ve practiced Lent for years or this is your first time hearing about it, you’re invited. Not to perform, but to pause. Not to impress, but to reconnect.
Questions:
- Have you ever participated in Lent before (giving something up or adding something)? What was your experience like?
- If you haven’t already, what’s one thing you’d consider giving up—or adding in—this Lent to make space for God?
- When was the last time you slowed down just to be still with God?
- What “noise” or distraction tends to pull your attention away from faith lately?
- How could this group support you in your Lent journey?
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