The Sacred Necessity of Lent for Mothers
If you haven’t grown up or attend a Liturgical church, it may seem like Lent is an unnecessary undertaking. With lesson plans, meal prep, and the daily work of shepherding little hearts, the idea of intentionally entering a season of fasting, prayer, and repentance may seem overwhelming. Yet, Lent is not about adding more burdens but about releasing them. It is not about legalistic rule-keeping but about drawing near to Christ in the simplicity of surrender.
Lent is a Christian observance that spans 40 days, traditionally beginning on Ash Wednesday and culminating in Easter Sunday. Originating in the early church, it served as a period of reflection, penance, and preparation for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. The practice of observing Lent involves various forms of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving, encouraging believers to deepen their spiritual life. Historically, this season has been marked by a distinct focus on self-discipline and repentance, allowing individuals to engage in meaningful practices that foster personal growth and strengthen their faith. Through these observances, many find an opportunity to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and mindfulness, reflecting on their values and commitments. I’ve grown up in a Liturgical church, so. I have been blessed to observe Lent my entire life.
Lent is a gift, a sacred necessity in the rhythm of the Christian year. It is not reserved for a select few Christians, Lent is a season given to all of us. It slows us down, reorients our hearts, and invites us into deeper communion with the Lord. As Charlotte Mason reminded us, “We wish to place before children three great ideas … the thought of God, the history of man, and the environment in which he lives.” Lent gives us the opportunity to bring these ideas into our homes in a living, tangible way.
Lent as a Liturgical Practice, Not a Legalistic One
Too often, Lent is seen as an obligation, a time when we must "give up" something as a spiritual duty. But Lent is not about proving our devotion; it is about making space for the Holy Spirit to work in us. It is an invitation to enter the wilderness with Jesus, to quiet the noise of the world, and to listen.
As homeschooling mothers, we teach our children the value of slow, deep learning. We trust that living books, careful observation, and meaningful conversations shape their souls. Should we not also trust that the slow, deliberate practices of Lent, prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, shape our own souls as well?
Lent is not about striving harder but about yielding. It is a time to ask: What hinders my walk with Christ? What distractions keep me from abiding in His presence? What desires have subtly taken first place in my heart?
This season is not about perfection. It is about posture. It is about turning our hearts toward the Lord with sincerity and openness.
Making Lent a Living Practice in Our Homes
As mothers, we set the tone for our homes. When we practice Lent with quiet joy rather than heavy obligation, our children learn that fasting is not about deprivation but about making room for abundance—the abundance of God’s grace, love, and presence.
Here are some simple ways to practice Lent as a family:
Daily Scripture Readings – Choose a passage each morning that leads your family through the story of Christ’s journey to the cross.
Simple Fasting – This doesn’t have to be food-related. Consider a family fast from unnecessary screen time, excess noise, or even hurried living.
Acts of Mercy – Find ways to serve together, whether writing letters to missionaries, bringing meals to a neighbor, or praying for the persecuted church.
Quiet Reflection – Encourage your children to keep a Lenten journal where they can write prayers, reflections, or even small moments of gratitude.
A Mother’s Education in Lent
In our homeschooling journeys, we focus so much on what our children are learning, but what about us? What about our own souls, our own spiritual formation?
That’s why I created A Mother’s Education: Lent, a program designed to help mothers engage with the season of Lent in a way that is rich, reflective, and life-giving. It is not another task to check off but a guide to lead you gently into this sacred season. Through the Lenten season we have the opportunity to read intentionally chosen books, study hymns and works of art, and meet with fellow believers in community.
It is an opportunity to reawaken our own hearts to the beauty of the Gospel, to be nourished by the Word, and to rediscover the deep joy of repentance and renewal.
This Lent, let us not see this season as a burden but as a blessing. Let us enter in, not with fear or obligation, but with the quiet confidence that the Lord is drawing us nearer. Let us walk with Christ, trust in His grace, and find rest in the sacred necessity of Lent.
If you'd like to join our Lenten season in community you can find the full program available in A Mother’s Education Lent.
