It is not surprising that the season of Lent is so misunderstood. In societies where consumerism and individualism are valued and considered normative the idea of engaging in a religious practice or discipline that is based on prayer, fasting, abstinence, and almsgiving may seem out of step, archaic, and not important. To engage in any of what are considered the “four pillars of Lent” may be judged to be a throwback to the Middle Ages when Western society was less evolved, less rational. Yet Lent is an important time in the liturgical calendar as it calls Christians to a time of self-reflection and renewal for the period of forty days before Easter when Christ’s resurrection is celebrated.
The Spanish word for Lent, cuaresma, originates from the word for “forty,” referencing the forty days that define this season. In biblical narratives, the number forty marks pivotal moments and turning points: Noah experienced forty days of rain, the Israelites wandered in the desert for forty years under Moses, and Jesus fasted and prayed for forty days in the desert, facing significant temptations. Though each story is unique, they share a common theme of transformation—a shift leading to new hope and a renewed future.
For Noah, the conclusion of forty days brought a rainbow as a sign of God’s promise of protection. The Israelites received daily manna and guidance at night from pillars of cloud and fire, symbolizing divine presence. After Jesus’ forty days in the desert, angels ministered to him, ending his hunger and solitude. These accounts provide a way to understand Lent as a turning point: an opportunity to move forward with hope, purpose, a true second chance.
When considered as a period of renewal, Lent’s forty days can become a time to reconsider our lives, reexamine values, and recommit to pursuits of lasting meaning. This perspective frees us from seeing Lent only as self-sacrifice or an unattainable call to prayer and fasting. In cultures that emphasize material achievement and consumerism, Lent can thus be reimagined as an opportunity for genuine reflection and change—embracing transformation rather than merely giving things up. To be able to do this in a society such as the one we live in that is fractured by a divisive and vitriolic religious and political discourse, Lent in 2026 more than ever needs to be given a second look.
Oscar Romero, writing in 1980, asserted, “Our Lent should awaken a sense of social justice.” Lent is not only about personal transformation but also about working for societal change, highlighting the world’s ongoing need for second chances. Despite discouraging headlines—such as ICE raids, global strife, military violence, hunger, poverty, and exploitation—Lent reminds us that our actions are part of a larger community where Christians and non-Christians alike can come together taking practical steps to improve the world.
One example we can take to heart is what was done by the people of Minnesota, who, through mutual effort, brought together labor unions, faith leaders, and community members to support immigrant neighbors affected by ICE raids. Their efforts included creating networks for food, supplies, and financial support, as well as organizing large food drives and providing legal aid. These achievements demonstrate the power of committed people working together for justice and social change.
Integral to Lent is love—not the superficial commercialized love often associated with Valentine’s Day, but a love that prompts us to move outside our comfort zones and to consider our neighbor’s reality. Pope Francis, in his 2015 Lenten Message, warned against the “globalization of indifference” that results from focusing only on our own well-being. He said, “[o]ur heart grows cold. As long as I am relatively healthy and comfortable, I don’t think about those less well off. Today, this selfish attitude of indifference has taken on global proportions, to the extent that we can speak of a globalization of indifference. It is a problem which we, as Christians, need to confront.” Lent calls us to respond to the needs of others, forging new relationships built on compassion and empathy. In his 2017 Lenten Message (Source), Pope Francis emphasized recognizing the value in every person, opening doors to those in need, and seeing each encounter as a gift deserving acceptance, respect, and love. Lent thereby offers a real opportunity to open our eyes and hearts, especially toward those who are weak and vulnerable.
Regardless of whether or not you have a religious tradition, Lent can be seen as a wisdom tradition—a map for moving beyond the greed, loneliness, indifference and chaos embedded in modern life. Lent calls us to remember the importance of others, to care for our planet, and the need for both collective reflection and action. During Lent in 2026 may the words of the Old Testament prophet speak to you and remind you of the real possibility for renewal, transformation, and second chances. Truly, Lent is more than outward observances. Lent is about the heart.
“I will tell you the kind of fast I want:
Free the people you have put in prison unfairly
and undo their chains.
Free those to whom you are unfair
and stop their hard labor.
Share your food with the hungry
and bring poor, homeless people into your own homes.
When you see someone who has no clothes, give him yours,
and don’t refuse to help your own relatives.
Then your light will shine like the dawn,
and your wounds will quickly heal.
Your God will walk before you,
and the glory of the LORD will protect you from behind.
Then you will call out, and the LORD will answer.
You will cry out, and he will say, ‘Here I am.’ (Isaiah 58: 6-9, New Century Version)
