Lent is a special time for Christians. It lasts for 40 days, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending at Easter. It is a time to grow closer to God through prayer, fasting and giving. Many people choose to give up something during Lent, while others take on a new habit. Both ways help prepare the heart for Easter. But how do you decide what to do? Let’s look at both options and find what works best for you.
Giving Up: The Traditional Way
For many, Lent means giving up something they enjoy. This practice comes from the idea of fasting, which is an important part of Lent. Giving up something helps with self-control and reminds us to focus on God.
Common Things People Give Up
Many people give up food or drinks they enjoy, such as:
- Chocolate
- Sweets
- Soda
- Coffee
- Fast food
Others choose to step away from habits, such as:
- Social media
- Watching too much TV
- Video games
- Shopping for things they don’t need
When you give something up, you create space for God. Every time you miss that thing, you can take a moment to pray or reflect. The goal is not just to remove something but to grow in faith through sacrifice.
Taking On: A Different Approach
Instead of giving something up, some people take on a new habit. This practice focuses on adding something meaningful to life during Lent. It can help build stronger faith and a deeper relationship with God.
Things People Take On
Here are some ideas of what people add to their lives during Lent:
- Daily prayer – Spend time talking to God each day.
- Reading the bible – Pick a passage to read every morning or night.
- Acts of kindness – Do something nice for someone every day.
- Helping others – Volunteer at a food pantry or donate to a charity.
- Writing in a gratitude journal – List things you are thankful for each day.
- Attending church more often – Go to daily Mass or join a Bible study.
Taking on a new habit can make Lent more active. It helps build good spiritual habits that can last even after Lent ends.
Choosing What’s Best for You
Should you give something up or take on a new habit? There is no right or wrong answer. The most important thing is to choose something that helps you grow closer to God.
Here are some questions to help you decide:
- What distracts me from my faith? (This may be something to give up.)
- What can help me feel closer to God? (This may be something to take on.)
- Do I want to focus on self-discipline or building a habit?
- What will challenge me without overwhelming me?
You may also choose to do both. For example, you could give up social media and take on a daily prayer routine. You could stop drinking soda and start reading the Bible every morning. The goal is not to be perfect but to make a real effort to grow spiritually.
Staying Committed
Lent is 40 days long, and staying committed can be tough. Here are some tips to help:
- Start with prayer – Ask God to help you stay strong.
- Keep it simple – Don’t choose too many things. One or two is enough.
- Have a reminder – Set an alarm or write a note to remind yourself.
- Get support – Tell a friend or family member about your Lenten practice. They can encourage you.
- Forgive yourself – If you slip up, don’t give up. Just start again the next day.
The True Meaning of Lent
Lent is not just about what you give up or take on. It is about preparing your heart for Easter. It is a time to focus on Jesus, reflect on His sacrifice and grow in faith. No matter what you choose, let it be something that brings you closer to God.
This Lent, think about what will help you the most. Whether you give something up or take on a new habit, do it with a heart open to God’s love. That is what truly matters.
