Today is the first Sunday of Lent in Catholic communities. Lent began on February 18 and ends on April 2, 2026. It is a time when we commemorate Jesus Christ’s 40 days of fasting in the desert and prepare ourselves for His ultimate sacrifice—His death on the cross—and His resurrection.
I grew up in a Catholic family, and my recollection of the Lenten season was abstaining from eating meat and trying to avoid sin. As I have grown older, I have come to understand that Lent is more than just fasting from meat. It is a season of prayer, fasting, and giving alms.
I once questioned why it is called “Lent.” I learned that the word comes from the Old English word lencten, meaning spring. Is it called Lent because the days grow longer and signal the beginning of spring?
I also wondered about the word “lend,” which means to grant something temporarily. Could Lent also remind us that what we have is only borrowed?
You may already know the answers to these questions, but I share them to reflect on what Lent means to me and to offer thoughts that may help you in your spiritual journey.
I believe the word Lenten beautifully fits the season. For me, Lent represents spring—not simply because of longer days or the calendar’s alignment with springtime, but because the Lenten season brings renewal to our faith.
In a recent homily, Father Gerry spoke about fasting as an opportunity to focus on what needs to change in our lives. When we deprive ourselves of something—like giving up soda to reduce calorie consumption—we redirect our attention. Instead of soda, we may choose something healthier and more nourishing, like water.
Similarly, when we fast, we let go of something to make space for what is better for our mind, body, and soul. Fasting allows the good within us to flourish. I see fasting as winter, when our desires hibernate, and spiritual renewal as spring.
If you live in the U.S., you know that credit scores are important. They show how reliable and trustworthy you are. The higher your credit score, the easier it is to be approved for loans or higher credit limits. A credit score reflects your responsibility as a borrower.
You may wonder why I am talking about credit scores in an article about Lent. Earlier, I mentioned the word “lend.” I see our mortal lives as a lent blessing—a gift temporarily entrusted to us. Life is priceless, far beyond anything money can buy.
Whether or not you believe in reincarnation, I believe that God gave us this life as an opportunity to grow in faith and prepare for eternal life with Him. Our borrowed time on earth should be focused on what strengthens our relationship with God.
If you are Catholic and need strength to remain faithful in your fasting this Lent, may this Bible verse encourage you:
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).
Thank you for reading. May God continue to grant you and your family His grace and love.