Lent
Lent is a season where we turn our attention to the risen Christ who calls us to deny ourselves and follow him. It is a season of repentance that propels us into spiritual renewal.
LENT RESOURCES
Lent Detox
Join us on a Lenten journey to follow Jesus by letting go of unhealthy habits and embracing spiritual practices.
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A willing abstinence from food for a period of time.
Fasting from food during Lent isn’t just about giving something up—it’s about making room for God. When we set aside meals or certain foods, we’re reminded that our true sustenance comes from Christ (Matthew 4:4).
Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness, relying on the Father, and we follow His example by using hunger as a spiritual prompt—turning our cravings into prayers and drawing closer to God. Fasting isn’t about earning favor; it’s about hungering for God more than anything else.
How is He calling you to seek Him this Lent?
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Lent is a time to not just fast from but to also lean into what nourishes our souls—God’s Word.
In a world full of noise, Scripture is our anchor (Psalm 119:105). This week, let’s make an intentional commitment to spending time in the Bible, not out of obligation, but out of a desire to know God’s heart more deeply.
Whether it’s five minutes or fifty, every moment in the Word shapes us, renews us, and draws us closer to Him.
How will you use your time to make space for God’s word this week?
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Lent isn’t just about giving something up—it’s about giving ourselves away. True generosity isn’t just about finances; it’s a posture of the heart—giving our time, our resources, and our love in response to all God has given us (2 Corinthians 9:7).
When we live generously, we reflect Christ, who gave everything for us. This week, let’s ask: How can I bless others? Whether it’s a financial gift, serving someone in need, or simply giving your time, let’s live out intentional generosity as an act of worship.
How will you practice generosity this week?
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Prayer isn’t just something we do—it’s how we connect with Jesus daily.
During Lent, we’re reminded to pause, pray, and listen—not just bringing our requests, but also offering thanks and surrendering to His will (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Prayer is an invitation to draw near to God, knowing He hears us and responds in His perfect timing.
This week, let’s commit to a daily rhythm of prayer—whether in the morning, during a quiet moment, or throughout the day. Let’s not just talk to Jesus but walk with Him in every moment.
How will you deepen your prayer life this week?
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In this world that never stops moving, God calls us to be still (Psalm 46:10). Solitude isn’t loneliness—it’s an intentional time to step away from the noise and be alone with Him.
Jesus often withdrew to quiet places to pray and seek the Father (Luke 5:16). When we do the same, we create space to hear His voice, rest in His presence, and be renewed.
This week, let’s commit to setting apart daily moments of quiet with God—no distractions, just time to listen, reflect, and rest in Him.
How will you make space for solitude this week?
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Lent invites us to let go—not just of physical things, but of anything that weighs us down. Simplicity isn’t about having less; it’s about making space for what truly matters—Jesus (Matthew 6:33).
When we release our attachments to excess—whether possessions, busyness, or distractions—we find freedom. A simple life isn’t empty; it’s full of peace, purpose, and deeper dependence on God.
This week, let’s ask: What is holding me back from fully trusting Jesus? Let’s declutter our hearts and lives so we can walk in the joy of simplicity.
What’s one thing you can simplify this week?
“Lent is the time to loosen and cast away the useless weight of everything but love.”
“Our journey toward God over the forty days of Lent includes a journey toward the suffering, because that is one place where God can be found.”
Season Timeline
3/5
LENT BEGINS
LENT NIGHT OF WORSHIP (ASH WED)
SUBURBAN LENT
SERIES BEGINS
3/9
MID-LENT
GATHERING
3/26
START OF
HOLY WEEK
4/13
GOOD
FRIDAY
4/18
EASTER
SUNDAY
4/20
Lent FAQ
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Lent is a period of repentance during which we redirect ourselves from our sins towards God, who offers healing, redemption, and reconciliation. Some refer to this season as a time of fasting and prayer, emphasizing its significance for spiritual growth and renewal.
The upcoming Lenten season, beginning in February this year, guides us on a transformative journey of refocusing our hearts on Jesus, leading up to the joyous celebration of His resurrection on Easter Sunday. -
While the term Lent does not appear in scripture, the definition of Lent as a time of fasting and repentance is prioritized by Jesus as well as New Testament leaders.
Lent is observed not only by individuals from Catholic backgrounds but also by various Protestants and Evangelicals worldwide. However, there is a risk associated with Lent that some may approach it merely as a ritual or outward display, rather than engaging with its deeper spiritual significance.
Our aim in embracing Lent at OWCC is to rediscover the inherent beauty of this season, where we welcome Jesus to realign our hearts toward Him by delving into the depths of our lives. -
Fasting essentially entails shutting, refraining, or abstaining from something. As followers of Jesus, fasting involves ceasing or abstaining from a particular activity or indulgence for a set period. We undertake this practice to deepen our connection with God and rely on Him more fully.
The concept of fasting is initially recorded in the book of Exodus, where Moses abstains from both food and water. We also see Jesus undertaking a 40-day fast at the beginning of His public ministry. These instances in scripture highlight the spiritual significance and practice of fasting as a means of drawing closer to God and seeking His guidance.
For us, fasting may involve abstaining from consuming specific types of food or beverages. Alternatively, one might choose to fast from engaging in activities such as using social media, watching television, or visiting particular websites. The purpose of such fasting is to redirect our focus towards God and cultivate a deeper dependence on Him.
If you decide to embrace fasting, especially if it's your first time, we encourage you to review the fasting guide available on our website. Additionally, feel free to reach out to us beforehand so that we can provide support and guidance as you begin this spiritual journey. We're here to walk alongside you every step of the way. -
“But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
MATTHEW 16:18