Every year, I look forward to the Lenten season. I start thinking about what I can give up or what new spiritual practice I can take on. Can I fast from something? Should I add more prayer time? Read more scripture? Serve more? I usually come in with a plan.
But Lent is more than a spiritual checklist.
At its core, Lent is about turning back to God. It is a symbolic gesture that reflects what Jesus gave up for us, everything, even life itself. That kind of love puts things in perspective. My temporary sacrifices are not about proving anything to God. They are about remembering what has already been given for me.
If I am honest, Lent also reminds me of something uncomfortable. I am flawed. I sin. I fall short. I get distracted. I try to control things that are not mine to control. I am not perfect, and I do not pretend to be.
But the beauty of Lent is that it does not demand perfection. It invites wholeheartedness.
There is a difference.
It is not about giving something up perfectly for forty days. It is not about having flawless discipline or checking every spiritual box. It is about showing up with a willing heart. It is about saying, “God, here I am. Imperfect, but open.” It is about recognizing where I have drifted and choosing to turn back.
Lent gives us space to examine what is getting in the way of our relationship with God. Maybe it is pride. Maybe it is resentment. Maybe it is fear. Maybe it is busyness. Whatever it is, this season gives us permission to be honest about it and courageous enough to let it go.
We begin Lent with ashes, a reminder that we are dust. But we do not stay there. We journey toward the cross and ultimately toward resurrection. This season is not about shame. It is about transformation. It is about surrendering what weighs us down so we can receive new life.
So this year, instead of focusing only on what we are giving up, maybe we ask a deeper question. Am I turning back to God with my whole heart?
Because Lent is not about doing it perfectly.
It is about doing it wholeheartedly.
Deacon Caitlin Hernandez
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