There’s something about this time of year that invites a reset. The holidays are long gone, the sparkle has faded, and we’re left with the quiet honesty of ordinary days. And right here in the middle of the ordinary is Lent.
This year, my word for Lent is intentionality. Not productivity. Not perfection. Just living on purpose.
If you’re craving a spiritual realignment, a gentle return to yourself and to God. Lent might be exactly the sacred space you didn’t know you needed.
What Is Lent?
Lent is the 40-day season in the Christian calendar that leads up to Easter. It begins on Ash Wednesday and ends just before Easter Sunday.
The 40 days reflect the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness before beginning His public ministry. It’s traditionally marked by prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, three practices meant to clear space in our hearts.
But at its core?
Lent is an invitation.
An invitation to slow down.
To notice.
To return.
Where Did Lent Come From?
The word Lent comes from an old English word meaning “springtime.” And I love that because spiritually, that’s exactly what it is: a thawing.
Historically, Lent developed in the early Christian church as a period of preparation for new believers being baptized at Easter. Over time, it became a season where all Christians were invited to reflect, repent, and renew.
It’s still observed today in many traditions, including the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, and many Protestant denominations.
But even beyond formal religion, Lent has become a meaningful rhythm for anyone seeking depth over distraction.
Why Lent Matters When You’re Searching for Realignment
If you’ve been feeling:
- Spiritually dry
- Emotionally distracted
- Disconnected from your purpose
- Overstimulated by life
Lent offers structure for coming back home to yourself.
And here’s the key: Lent isn’t about punishment. It’s about awareness.
When we fast from something (whether that’s social media, sugar, shopping, or noise) we begin to see what’s actually filling us… and what’s numbing us.
That awareness creates space.
And space is where God whispers.
My Word for Lent: Intentionality
This year, I’m not just “giving something up.” I’m choosing to live deliberately.
For me, intentionality looks like:
- Beginning my mornings without my phone
- Setting aside 10 minutes for quiet prayer or journaling
- Eating slowly and gratefully
- Speaking more thoughtfully
- Checking my motives before saying yes
Intentionality asks:
Why am I doing this?
Is this aligned with who I want to become?
It’s less about restriction and more about alignment.
Simple Ways to Practice Intentionality During Lent
You don’t have to overhaul your life. Start small.
✨ 1. Choose One Fast
Pick one thing that distracts you from presence. Remove it gently. Notice what surfaces.
✨ 2. Add One Sacred Habit
Light a candle before bed. Read one Psalm. Take a silent walk. Create a tiny ritual you return to daily.
✨ 3. Practice the Pause
Before reacting, purchasing, scrolling, or committing, pause. Even five seconds of intention shifts everything.
✨ 4. Reflect Weekly
Every Sunday, ask:
- Where did I feel most aligned this week?
- Where did I move on autopilot?
- What is God inviting me into next?
Lent as a Lifestyle, Not Just a Season
Here’s what I’m learning: Lent isn’t about becoming hyper-religious for 40 days.
It’s about remembering who you are.
It’s about clearing away the noise so your life feels honest again.
Intentional.
Aligned.
Alive.
And maybe that’s what spiritual realignment really is not striving to be someone new, but gently returning to who you were created to be.
If you’re walking into this season craving depth, I’m right there with you. Let’s choose intentionality together. 🌿