Worried about getting Lent right? Here’s a better way

As Lent draws near, many Catholics start thinking about what they’ll give up or how to make it the "BEST LENT EVER." The pressure to pray more, fast, and give alms can sometimes feel like a checklist, as if we’re just trying to survive the next 40 days without falling into Catholic guilt.

But what if we approached this season differently? Instead of seeing Lent as a path to perfection, what if we viewed our Lenten commitments as an invitation to receive what Jesus truly desires to do in us?

Ultimately, Lent isn’t about what we do, but about how God works in us.

Here are a few ideas to consider before Lent begins on March 5:

The traditional Lenten practices — prayer, fasting, and almsgiving — are ways to build virtuous relationships: with God, with ourselves, and with others. For example, consider fasting from negative thoughts about yourself and replacing them with short prayers. Try fasting from uncharitable thoughts and gossip about others. Maybe this Lent, you could dedicate more time to being present with your family in shared spaces, or even plan to have meals together at the table — a simple yet powerful way to strengthen bonds. Or perhaps, you’ll encounter God more deeply through the sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist, or by reading and praying with your Bible more often.

As you make your Lenten plans, bring them to God — not as tasks to check off, but as part of your relationship with him and with those around you. Remember, Lent is ultimately about the relationships you nurture: with God, with others, and with yourself.

Take a moment to reflect: What is the root cause of your sin? Is it pride, selfishness, greed, or apathy? Identifying the deeper patterns behind your sin isn’t about beating yourself up or wallowing in guilt — it’s about addressing the root so that, with Jesus’ help, you can sever your connection to the poison of sin.

Our goal is to get to the heart of the matter, for it’s in the heart where sin takes root. As part of your Lenten journey, make a plan to go to Confession to seek forgiveness and healing.

Imagine sharing the next 40 days of Lent with Jesus, inviting him into every moment. How often do we have intimate conversations with him, or even just pause to ask, “Jesus, what do you think about this?” Or, when something joyful happens, do we take a moment to pray, “Thank you, Jesus, for being here with me and sharing this joy”?

Ask God to help you recognize his presence more deeply throughout each day. Let Lent be a time to cultivate a more intimate relationship with Jesus — through both the big and small moments of your life.

As Christians, we’re called to show God’s love to everyone — our family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers. What does loving your neighbor look like for you this year? Are there areas where you feel called to grow, especially in serving those with whom you may not see eye to eye? This Lent, consider how God might be calling you to love others more deeply, especially those who challenge you the most.

Lent is not a race to perfection, but a journey of transformation. It’s about allowing Jesus to work in you, healing what is broken, and deepening your relationships with God, yourself, and others. Let this season be one where you open yourself to the grace of God and his transforming love.

If these ideas have resonated with you and you’re eager to explore them further, don’t miss out on Wilderness Within: A Guided Lent Journal for Prayer and Meditation by Sr. Josephine Garrett, CSFN, with beautiful illustrations by June Jameson.

Make this Lenten season even more meaningful by allowing Sr. Josephine to guide you through the 40 days with her joyful and poignant reflections. Access her weekly video reflections for FREE on the Ave Maria Press website — your perfect companion for prayer and meditation.

Ready to dive deeper? Order your copy today and explore our bulk-pricing options for groups, parishes, schools, or classes. Start your Lenten journey now!