Great Lent is Near: Preparing Our Hearts for the Journey
The days are passing quickly, and before we know it, Great Lent will be upon us! Clean Monday is just two weeks away, marking the beginning of this sacred season—a time of repentance, prayer, and renewal. As Orthodox women, we are called to embrace Lent with an open heart, seeing it not as a burden but as a gift, an opportunity to realign ourselves with Christ and start anew. And who doesn’t need a fresh start? I know I do!
Approaching Lent with an Orthodox Mindset
Lent is not just about what we give up—it is about what we gain. The Church, in Her wisdom, gives us this season to refocus, to strip away distractions, and to nourish our souls. The fasting, increased prayers, almsgiving, and extra church services are all tools to help us grow closer to Christ.
Instead of viewing these as obligations, let us embrace them as invitations. This is a time to deepen our prayer life, to cultivate gratitude, and to soften our hearts toward those around us. It is not about perfection, but about perseverance.
Setting Challenging Yet Realistic Goals
While Lent is a season of spiritual stretching, it is also a time to be realistic about our commitments. Setting goals that are too rigid can lead to discouragement, while setting no goals at all can leave us feeling unprepared. Consider these questions as you prepare for Lent:
How can I commit to more prayer—both personally and with my family?
What fasting goals are reasonable for my household according to ages, health issues, etc.?
How can I increase my time in Scripture and spiritual reading?
What distractions can I minimize to create a more prayerful atmosphere at home?
How can I serve others more intentionally during this season?
Be sure to discuss each of these questions with your spiritual father, so he can help you create the best plan for you specifically. Each of us has a unique path, and God meets us where we are. Whether you are a mother navigating Lent with little ones, a working woman balancing responsibilities, or someone seeking to deepen your faith, your Lenten journey is yours to walk with Christ.
Resources to Guide Your Family Through Lent
To help you and your family enter into this holy season, I have Lenten studies available for both children and adults. These guides are designed to bring the themes of Great Lent to life, providing Scripture readings, reflections, and practical ways to engage with the fast.
If you’re looking for structured ways to bring the spirit of Lent into your home, these studies can be a great companion on the journey.
Embracing the Season with Joy
As we approach Clean Monday, let’s prepare our hearts with expectation and hope. Great Lent is not about deprivation—it is about transformation. It is a time to seek Christ more fully, to walk in repentance, and to experience the deep joy that comes with drawing near to Him.
May we approach this season with faith, setting goals that challenge us yet strengthen us, and embracing Lent as the beautiful gift that it is.
Are you ready? Forgiveness Sunday and Clean Monday are just around the corner! Let’s step into this season together, with prayerful hearts and open hands.
Be sure to check out my Lenten Studies and let me know if you have any questions! Wishing you a blessed and fruitful Lent, friends!
