Week by week reflections on Lent

Easter

Lenten Reflection Guide
A Journey of Renewal and Transformation

Introduction to Lent

Lent is a sacred season of 40 days, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Saturday, just before Easter Sunday. It is a time of reflection, repentance, and renewal—a journey of drawing closer to God through prayer, fasting, and acts of mercy. Each week of Lent carries a theme that invites us to deepen our faith and prepare our hearts for the joy of the Resurrection.

Week 1: The Wilderness – A Time of Testing

Scripture: "Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil." (Matthew 4:1)

The wilderness is a place of testing but also of transformation. Jesus' 40 days in the desert teach us that struggle refines us. In solitude, we confront our distractions and deepen our reliance on God.

Reflection Questions:

What spiritual distractions keep me from fully embracing God’s presence? How can I embrace the silence of Lent to listen more deeply to God's voice?

Action Step: Spend time in quiet reflection each day, whether in prayer, journaling, or simply being still.

Week 2: The Call to Repentance – Turning Back to God

Scripture: "Repent, and believe in the gospel." (Mark 1:15)

Repentance is not just about acknowledging sin; it is about realigning our hearts with God's purpose. Like the prodigal son, we are invited to return home, where grace and mercy await us.

Reflection Questions:

Where is God calling me to make a change in my life? What burdens or habits do I need to let go of?

Action Step: Make an intentional effort to reconcile with someone or seek forgiveness where needed.

Week 3: The Call to Mercy – Loving as Christ Loves

Scripture: "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful." (Luke 6:36)

True fasting is not only abstaining from food but also embracing love in action. Lent calls us to acts of mercy—feeding the hungry, caring for the lonely, and seeking justice for the oppressed.

Reflection Questions:

How can I extend kindness and mercy to others this week? Is there someone in my life who needs my forgiveness or compassion?

Action Step: Perform one act of kindness each day, whether through words, service, or prayer.

Week 4: The Light in the Darkness – Hope in the Journey

Scripture: "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8:12)

Lent can feel heavy, but even in sacrifice, we find hope. Jesus reminds us that the path to the cross is not one of despair but of transformation. His light is always with us.

Reflection Questions:

Where do I see God’s light breaking through in my life? How can I be a source of hope and encouragement to others?

Action Step: Write down three blessings each day as a reminder of God’s presence.

Week 5: The Call to Surrender – Trusting God's Will

Scripture: "Not my will, but yours be done." (Luke 22:42)

In Gethsemane, Jesus surrendered fully to God’s plan. Lent invites us to do the same—to let go of our fears and trust in God's greater purpose.

Reflection Questions:

What am I holding onto that I need to release into God's hands? How can I grow in faith and trust this season?

Action Step: Pray a prayer of surrender, offering your worries and desires to God.