Lent: A Time for Reflection, Minimalism, and Spiritual Wealth

I can almost feel the shift in the air as March arrives—winter’s cold grip finally loosening and the promise of spring just ahead. After months of dreary, gray days, I’m more than ready for the warmth and color that spring brings. With March comes not only the promise of brighter, warmer days but also the joy of Easter and the reflective season of Lent—things I’m truly looking forward to.

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, which falls on March 5th this year, and ends on Holy Thursday, April 17th. It’s a time of reflection, fasting, and spiritual growth. Inspired by the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness, Lent invites us to focus on our relationship with God, just as He did. For me, Lent is a time to recommit to my faith, cling tight to my beliefs, and deepen my relationship with God. It’s a season to intentionally seek spiritual growth and live out my faith more fully.

Jesus lived a life of minimalism, emphasizing the importance of spiritual wealth over material possessions. In Matthew 6:19-21, He teaches, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth…but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” He reminds us in Luke 12:15 that life isn’t measured by what we own, but by how we live in service to God and others. These teachings encourage us to shift our focus from accumulating possessions to cultivating a deeper relationship with God.

Lent is an opportunity to step back from distractions and prioritize spiritual growth—through prayer, service, and acts of kindness. By simplifying our lives, we can deepen our gratitude for the blessings God has given us and remember that true fulfillment is found in loving God and others.

Practical Ideas for Giving Up During Lent

As we prepare for Lent, consider what you can give up or simplify to help focus your heart and mind. Here are some ideas that reflect both the minimalist approach Jesus demonstrated and the need to prioritize spiritual over material wealth:

• Going Out to Eat: Skip dining out or fast food and try cooking at home. Experiment with new recipes or meal prepping to save time and bond with others.
  
• Caffeine: I’ve decided to give up soda for Lent. It’s unnecessary, not great for your teeth, and I want to focus on healthier, sweeter alternatives like seltzer water. If you’re cutting back on caffeine—whether coffee, soda, or energy drinks—try herbal teas or caffeine-free drinks.
  
• Sweets: Giving up sweets helps practice self-discipline. Satisfy cravings with fruit or healthier homemade treats like energy balls.
  
• Social Media: Take a break from personal use, or if needed for work, limit your time to work-related tasks. Stay in touch with others by meeting up in person or on the phone.
  
• Video Games: While fun, video games can be an opportunity to explore new hobbies like photography, painting, or outdoor activities like biking to refresh your body and mind.
  
• Alcohol: Go alcohol-free for 40 days to remind yourself that contentment doesn’t come from external habits. Try mocktails, sparkling water, or mindful activities like walks. If you’re looking for an alcohol-free option for your celebrations, check out my Lucky Lime Fizz Mocktail recipe. It’s a festive and refreshing way to join in the fun while keeping your focus on intentional living.
  
• Unnecessary Purchases: Focus only on essentials. Consider using the savings to support a cause or donate to charity.
  
• Binge-Watching TV: Skip binge-watching and invest your time in books, journaling, or learning something new.
  
• Beauty Routines: Skip salon appointments and focus on simple self-care, like DIY skincare, stretching, or journaling to nurture both body and mind.
  
• A Hobby: Scale back on indulgent hobbies and try something new, like volunteering, reading, or learning a skill that benefits both you and others.
  
• Meat: Cut back on meats or try plant-based alternatives while ensuring you meet your nutritional needs with vegetables and legumes.

To make it even easier for you to stay on track during this season of reflection, I’ve created a handy checklist with all these ideas to guide you. Download it below so you can keep the list on hand and refer to it whenever you need inspiration. Whether you’re giving up one item or several, having these ideas in front of you will help you stay intentional and focused throughout Lent.

Closing Thoughts: Reflecting on Your Practice

As you consider what to give up for Lent, remember that the purpose is not about punishment or deprivation—it’s about creating space in your life for God to work, refocusing your attention on Him, and growing in spiritual maturity. It’s about making room for the things that truly matter.

I’d love to hear from you—do you practice Lent? What are you giving up this year, and how are you preparing your heart for this season of reflection? Let’s walk through this journey together and grow closer to God.