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Lent is a 40-day season in which followers of Jesus intentionally prepare their hearts for Easter. Mirroring Jesus’ forty days of fasting and testing in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11), Lent runs from Ash Wednesday to just before Easter Sunday (excluding Sundays) and invites believers to slow down, reflect, and refocus their walk with Christ.
Through repentance, prayer, and renewed dependence on God, Lent creates space to prepare for what is arguably the most significant celebration in the Christian calendar – the death and resurrection of Jesus.
Naturally, questions arise:
In response, it’s helpful to remember this: Lent is not a biblical command, but a gifted rhythm. It is a voluntary practice that helps believers prepare their hearts for Easter by devoting themselves afresh to Christ. Lent is not a punishment; it is rooted in purpose and preparation.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Scripture makes an important distinction between biblical commands and biblical wisdom. For example, we are explicitly commanded not to murder in the Ten Commandments. However, Scripture also consistently shows that daily prayer, time in God’s Word, and intentional devotion – though not commanded in a single verse – are deeply fruitful practices.
Lent fits into this second category. You won’t find a command to “observe Lent” in Scripture, but you will find many biblical foundations for its themes:
Scripture also affirms freedom of conscience in such practices (Romans 14:5-6; Colossians 2:16-17). Lent is not about obligation but invitation. As you reflect on these passages, the heart behind Lent becomes clear.
Because Lent centres on renewing our awareness of dependence on God, it stands firmly against legalism and spiritual performance. Lent is not something we “do” to earn favour with God. Rather, it is a response to grace already given.
Jesus strongly warns against empty religious behaviour (Matthew 23; Isaiah 58). These passages draw our attention back to the cross, where repentance begins and forgiveness is already secured. Lent, at its healthiest, always leads us back to the Gospel – not away from it.
Throughout Scripture, forty days (or years) repeatedly marks seasons of testing and transformation: Israel in the wilderness, Moses on Mount Sinai, Elijah’s journey, and Jesus’ temptation. These wilderness moments strip away distractions and cultivate dependence on God.
Lent functions similarly – a voluntary “wilderness” that helps reorient our desires, passions, and loves toward their rightful place in God.
Practically speaking, Lent often involves either giving something up or taking something on. Anything that hinders devotion to God may be worth setting aside; anything that aids devotion may be worth embracing.
Traditional practices include fasting, prayer, generosity, and simplicity. Modern examples might include limiting technology, breaking unhealthy habits, or stepping back from comforts. The details matter far less than the purpose. Lent is about intention, not technique.
In a fast-paced world, we often rush to the ending without embracing the process. Lent slows us down so we don’t rush past the cross on our way to the resurrection.
Through Lent, we:
The joy of Easter is magnified when it follows purposeful reflection.
Lent is an invitation, not an obligation. Christians across traditions practice it differently – or not at all. What matters is engaging in ways that are scripturally grounded, spiritually healthy, and grace-centred.
For those prone to shame or harsh self-criticism, Lent may not be helpful. Seek the Lord’s wisdom for how you can best prepare your heart for Easter.
Lent is a tool, not a test. It is an invitation to slow down, listen, repent, and hope. If you choose to observe Lent, do so not with fear or obligation, but with expectant hope – trusting what God may reveal along the way.89
And remember: at the end of Lent stands a glorious resurrection, proclaiming salvation and new life to all who believe.
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