Lent is a season in the Christian calendar that leads up to Easter. It is 40 days, representing the time Jesus spent in the desert fasting and being tempted by Satan for 40 days. Ash Wednesday is the first day of lent where we spend time in reflection and preparation for the season.
Mark 1:35 (ESV) records, “And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.” This is such a beautiful picture of the very intentional desire of Jesus to be with his Father in a very busy time. Before and after this verse, he is in the thick of his ministry preaching and healing. During busy times in my life, I often justify sleeping in or watching tv to relax. These things are not sinful, but they definitely don’t align my heart and mind with my Heavenly Father.
So what should we do during this season? How can we practice focusing on Christ well during this time?
1. Remember the purpose of Lent and Ash Wednesday
The entire purpose of this season is to fix our eyes, our hearts, our time, and our gaze to the cross and resurrection of Christ. Although the practice and discipline of fasting and solitude are admirable, in themselves, they cannot satisfy us like life in Christ can. God has given these disciplines to help us focus on what is most important in this life and eternity -- God himself.
2. Have a plan to slow down
Some of the most helpful fasts and disciplines I have had during the lent season have been ones that helped me slow down. I’m an extravert, so I love being with my friends and spending time with family. However, I often leave myself with little time to listen to the dear sweet voice of God. I struggle to say no to events or a fun activity, which then leaves little energy and brain space to intentionally read my Bible. Maybe you know the feeling of having a full schedule? I am sure you do. However, when I am proactive and carve out time to be with the Lord, to have solitude, or to give up something that helps me focus on him, it is always beneficial. Talk to a friend or your spouse to help keep you accountable to these things.
3. Take away or add to
Traditionally lent is a season where we take away something (fast), but it can also be a time to commit to doing something that might stretch your time but increase your affection for the Lord. It might be helpful to give up big distractions like TV, video games, social media, etc.. But, it also might be helpful to add something to your daily rhythm. One of my most memorable Lent seasons was in college. Every day I did something different (I’m one for variety). Mondays I fasted, Tuesdays I did scripture memorization, Wednesdays I purged (usually clothes to my roommates. It was really a fun time for them!), etc.. For me, it was a mixture of taking things away and adding spiritual disciplines I was not doing every day. That was a time in my life when I had a lot of margin, whereas the season I’m currently in with small children leads me to a simpler form of fasting. Lent can be a joyous time to commit to some new routines and/or habits. These things will probably take time, effort, and coordination, but don’t be discouraged because it is so worth it.
4. “I will get back up again!” - Trolls
Personally, I do not love setting goals and such because I’m not that great at achieving them. Confession: I give up. I get bored or lose motivation. Over the years though, I’ve learned how to have grace for myself and begin again even if it’s been 3 days since I read my Bible or 3 months since I last exercised. His mercies are new every morning. It is important to keep this in mind as we commit to new habits or restrain from old habits. Let’s be faithful to remember the gospel and what Christ has done for us.
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Galatians 2:20 (ESV)
Meet the Author!
Kayla is the wife of Council Road’s Young Adult Pastor, Landry Franks, and mother to Asher, Dru, and Margot. She works as a therapist in Oklahoma City, providing trauma services for children, adolescents, and families. She enjoys time with her family, meaningful conversation, cold weather, running, and a good board game.