Lent: A Time of New Beginnings

Anne DeSantis considers how moms and families can grow spiritually during the holy season of Lent.

Lent is a sacred season. It is a time set apart to prepare our hearts to walk alongside Jesus on his path of self-gift, sacrifice, and ultimate love. It’s a time for prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, but it’s also a time for renewal. The lessons we embrace during Lent don’t simply fade away on Easter Sunday; they set us on a path of transformation and newness with the Lord.

As Catholic mothers, this journey isn’t just for us. It’s one we undertake with our families: our husbands, children, grandchildren, and extended communities. 

A Time for Honest Reflection 

Before we can grow closer to Christ, we need to pause and reflect. In Psalm 139:23, we read: "Probe me, God, know my heart; try me, know my thoughts." Lent calls us to ask ourselves hard questions: How can I imitate Christ better in my daily life? What areas of my heart need His healing touch? Self-examination isn’t always easy, especially when we’re wrapped in routines and responsibilities, but this sacred pause allows God to reveal areas where we can grow. 

Take time to dive into Scripture, read reflections from trusted Catholic authors, and sit quietly in prayer. Ask God to guide your steps on this Lenten journey and be open to the gentle nudges He places on your heart. 

Learning to Listen 

We live in a noisy world. It is a world that often values appearances over authenticity. Social media keeps us scrolling through picture-perfect family photos, achievements, and celebrations. While sharing joyful moments isn’t inherently wrong, it’s easy to fall into the trap of performance over presence. Lent challenges us to step off the stage and into the quiet. 

Jesus was the ultimate listener. He paused for the woman at the well (John 4), He heard the cries of the blind man (Mark 10:46-52), and He listened to the whispers of those who doubted and feared. As Catholic mothers, we are called to imitate that same attentive love. 

This Lent let’s slow down. Let’s listen to our children with patience and intention. Let’s notice when our husbands need encouragement. Let’s open our hearts to the stories of those around us. In doing so, we create space for God’s grace to move within our homes. 

Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving: A Lenten Triad 

The heart of Lent lies in the pillars of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. These aren’t just boxes to check off; they are invitations to draw nearer to God. 

• Prayer: Whether it’s through family Rosary time, personal meditation, or moments of quiet reflection, prayer connects us to God’s heart. Make prayer a consistent rhythm in your home. 

• Fasting: Fasting isn’t just about giving up chocolate or social media. It’s about creating space for God. Ask yourself: What is distracting me from God? Let your fast draw you closer to Him. 

• Almsgiving: True almsgiving goes beyond financial offerings. It’s about giving our time, our talents, and our love to those who need it most. Perhaps it’s helping a struggling family member, volunteering at your parish, or simply being more present to those around you. 

Jesus tells us, "For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be" (Matthew 6:21). These three pillars aren’t isolated actions; they intertwine, guiding us to place our treasure firmly in God’s hands. 

Lent is Just the Beginning 

When Easter morning dawns and we celebrate Christ’s victory over death, let’s not leave our Lenten practices behind. The habits of prayer, listening, and self-sacrifice are meant to carry us forward. 

Lent isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. It’s about small, intentional steps toward becoming more Christ-like in our daily lives. As Catholic mothers, we have the unique privilege of modeling this journey for our children and those around us. 

So let’s begin again. Let’s embrace this holy season with open hearts and a willingness to be transformed. May this Lent be a time of true renewal for you and your family. 

A clean heart create for me, God; renew within me a steadfast spirit. (Psalm 51:12) 

Be blessed, and may your Lent be fruitful and filled with God’s grace. 

Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

Copyright 2025 Anne DeSantis
Images: Canva