40 Days of Grace ( Day 21): Teaching the Next Generation About Sacrifice and Love

Lent is a special time in the Christian calendar, a season of reflection, prayer, and preparation for Easter. Now that we’re halfway through this sacred season, it’s a great time to check in with our children and encourage them on their Lenten journey.

Many kids start Lent with excitement, choosing things to give up or new habits to practice. But as the days pass, they may start feeling challenged by their Lenten promises. This is the perfect time to remind them why we observe Lent and how their sacrifices, big or small, can bring them closer to God. Here are some ways to keep them motivated:

1. Remind Them of the Purpose

Sometimes kids forget why they gave up candy, screen time, or their favourite snacks. Gently remind them that their small sacrifices help them remember Jesus’ big sacrifice for us. You can do this by saying:

"When we give up something we love, we remember how much Jesus loves us. Every time you miss what you gave up, say a little prayer and thank Jesus for His love."

2. Offer a Mid-Lent Check-In

Ask your child:

- How has your Lenten journey been so far?

- Have you found it easy or hard to stick with your promise?

- Do you want to adjust your Lenten sacrifice or add a new act of kindness?

This conversation helps them reflect and stay engaged in their commitment.

3. Shift the Focus to Giving

Lent isn’t just about giving something up—it’s also about giving to others! Encourage your child to do small acts of kindness, such as:

- Writing a thank-you note to a teacher or friend.

- Donating toys or clothes to those in need.

- Helping a sibling with a chore without being asked.

These small acts remind children that Lent is about love—loving God and loving others.

A Family Activity: The Love Chain

Since we’re halfway through Lent, this is a great time to start a Love Chain. Each day, have your child write down one loving action they did (e.g., “I helped Mom set the table” or “I prayed for my friend”). Link the papers together to form a chain. By Easter, they’ll see how much love they’ve shared!

Looking Forward to Easter

Lent is not just about sacrifice; it is also about preparing for the joy of Easter. Encourage your child to keep going during their Lenten journey, reminding them that their efforts bring them closer to Jesus. Easter will be even more joyful for them when they see that they have spent Lent growing in love and faith!

As we move through the second half of Lent, let’s support and encourage our children, helping them see that their small sacrifices and acts of love make a big difference in their faith journey.

Happy Lent!

By Catholic Connect Reporter