Lent 2026: Why This Ancient Season Could Transform Your Faith in 40 Days

Why Lent Is One of the Most Life Giving Seasons in the Christian Year

Evangelist and minister J. John has written a powerful reflection on the significance of Lent, published by Christian Daily International on February 19, 2026. In it, he presents four compelling reasons why this ancient season remains one of the most spiritually enriching periods for Christians worldwide.

Lent 2026 began on Ash Wednesday, February 18, and will continue through April 2, leading into Easter on April 5. John, who has served in ministry for over four decades through Philo Trust, argues that Lent is far from the sombre, joyless season many perceive it to be.

First, John describes Lent as a sacred pause. In a world overwhelmed by speed and noise, Lent arrives as what he calls "a long, slow interruption" that invites believers into simplicity, silence, listening, and contemplation. It creates space to remember the core of the Christian message: God's love, forgiveness, and healing through Jesus Christ.

Second, John reframes the practice of penitence. Rather than wallowing in shame, he writes that penitence means walking honestly into the light of God's mercy. He compares it to visiting a doctor: uncomfortable, but ultimately life giving.

Repentance clears the ground so grace can grow.

Third, Lent reorders priorities. The traditional practice of fasting is not about dieting, John explains, but about spiritual discipline. By denying certain pleasures, believers acknowledge that their appetites should not control them. This realigns the heart toward God's will rather than personal desires.

Fourth, Lent serves as preparation for Easter. John notes that a feast tastes richer after a fast, and that understanding human sinfulness deepens appreciation for the power of Christ's resurrection.

Four Reasons Christians Should Embrace the Lenten Season in 2026

John concludes his reflection with a prayer inviting believers to enter this season with open hearts: asking God to slow their pace, soften their hearts, strip away distractions, and lead them deeper into the mystery of His grace. He describes Lent as God, in His kindness, giving us time.

The piece has resonated with Christians across denominational lines, as Lent is observed by Catholics, Anglicans, Lutherans, Methodists, and an increasing number of evangelical Protestants seeking deeper spiritual formation.

The Crusader's Opinion

In a world that tells you to consume more, scroll faster, and never stop, Lent says the opposite. It says kneel. It says be still. It says remember what you were made for. J. John is right: this season is pure gift from God. The modern Church desperately needs Lent. We have grown fat on comfort and thin on conviction. Forty days of fasting, prayer, and honest repentance before the throne of the Almighty is exactly what Western Christianity needs right now. If the early Church fathers practiced it, if Christ Himself fasted forty days in the wilderness, who are we to skip it?

Take Action

• Commit to observing Lent this year by choosing one thing to fast from and one spiritual discipline to add, whether that is daily Scripture reading, prayer, or attending a weekly service.
• Read J. John's full reflection at Christian Daily International and share it with your church community.
• Support persecuted Christians who observe Lent under threat of violence through The Shepherd's Shield.
• Donate to Open Doors to help underground churches that fast and pray in secret because their governments forbid it.
• Invite someone who has never observed Lent to join you this year. Share why it matters and walk through the season together.