40 Days of Grace: Living Lent like Jesus

April 7, 2025: Lent is a time to walk closely with Jesus—and not just in His suffering, but in His way of life. While prayer, fasting, and almsgiving are foundational, the life of Jesus also reveals other profound yet often overlooked practices we can adopt this season.

Here are unique, practical ways to observe Lent, rooted in the life of Christ:

1. Practice Holy Listening (John 4:7–26 – The Samaritan Woman)

Jesus didn’t rush conversations—He listened deeply, especially to the broken. This Lent, take time to truly listen to someone without interrupting or offering advice. Be fully present in every conversation, especially with those who feel unseen.

Reflection: Who in your life needs to be heard more than helped right now?

2. Embrace Interruptions Gracefully (Mark 5:21–43)

Jesus was often interrupted—by the sick, the needy, the curious. Yet, He never turned people away. This Lent, when plans go awry or people disrupt your schedule, respond with patience and kindness instead of irritation.

Reflection: How can I respond to interruptions today with the heart of Christ?

3. Create a “Desert Space” in Your Home (Matthew 4:1–11)

Jesus withdrew to the desert to connect with God. Set aside a small prayer corner at home—a candle, a cross, a Bible. Go there daily, even if just for five minutes, to reflect and retreat from the noise.

Reflection: Where can I create space for silence and God in my daily routine?

4. Affirm and Uplift Others (Matthew 8:10)

Jesus often affirmed people’s faith, courage, and love. This Lent, make it a daily habit to affirm at least one person—through a message, a note, or a sincere compliment. Build others up as Christ did.

Reflection: Who is one person I can intentionally encourage today?

5. Welcome the Outsider (Luke 19:1–10 – Zacchaeus)

Jesus went out of His way to welcome those society rejected. Look for someone in your circle—at church, work, or school—who seems left out. Invite them for a meal or include them in a group chat or activity.

Reflection: Who around me feels excluded, and how can I draw them in?

6. Rest with Purpose (Mark 6:31)

Jesus said, “Come away and rest a while.” This Lent, practice Sabbath moments: one screen-free hour a day, an intentional walk in nature, or a Sunday with no shopping or chores—just time with God and loved ones.

Reflection: Am I allowing myself to rest in God’s presence, or just being busy?

7. Speak Truth with Love (John 8:3–11)

Jesus didn’t shy away from truth, but He delivered it with mercy. This Lent, if you must correct or confront someone, do it gently. Also, examine where you need to hear and accept truth with humility.

Reflection: Is there a truth I need to say—or receive—with grace this season?

By Catholic Connect Reporter