Lord, I Need You: A Heartfelt Reflection for Lent

We have now entered the Lenten season, a sacred time of reflection as we journey with Jesus toward the cross. Unlike other church seasons filled with celebration, Lent is marked by prayer, self-examination, and quiet anticipation of Holy Week. It serves as a profound reminder of our mortality and need for God’s grace. During this season, we open our hearts to His transforming love, drawing closer to Him as we prepare for the hope of Easter. 

One resounding truth echoes in my heart as we begin Lent: “Lord, I need You.” Acknowledging our human nature—our inclination to follow worldly ways rather than God—deepens our awareness of our need for His grace. Too often, we attempt to serve God in our own strength, only to falter and realize that, without Him, we are nothing. These moments of failure reveal our dependence on Him. To truly reach the world for Jesus, we must surrender our efforts and rely completely on His power working through us. 

At Alva Church of the Nazarene, our vision this year is simple yet profound: One Gospel. One Savior. One Soul. Our mission is to reach individuals one at a time with the life-changing message of Jesus—a Savior who loves us deeply and gave His life for us. 

Each morning, before I even leave my bedroom, I offer this heartfelt prayer: “Lord, give me one person to reach for You today.” When we share Christ with even one individual, their life can be transformed by His love. That person, in turn, can share Christ with another, creating a ripple effect of God’s grace. This chain reaction demonstrates how extraordinary things happen through simple acts of obedience. When we witness how God moves in these moments, we are left in awe of His incredible work. 

While Lent is traditionally associated with giving something up, it’s essential to examine our motives. Are we sacrificing out of habit, or are we seeking a deeper connection with Jesus—one that has the power to transform our lives? 

Fasting is a meaningful practice during Lent. But fasting isn’t limited to giving up food—it involves letting go of anything that distracts us from God. Consider stepping back from social media, television, or your cell phone to create more space for prayer and reflection. You might also fast from gossip, busyness, fear, complaining, excessive shopping, or even hitting the snooze button. By releasing these habits, we make room for a deeper connection with Christ, allowing Him to transform our hearts.  

Lent is about more than just sacrifice; it’s also about action. Another impactful way to observe this holy season is through acts of service. These moments of service often lead to what I call “holy moments”—profound encounters with Christ in the midst of our daily lives. By stepping outside ourselves and extending love to those in need, we follow Jesus’ example. He came not as a King seeking to be served but as a Servant who gave Himself for others. This Lent let’s not only give something up—let’s give ourselves away in service and love. 

What is one thing you can fast from this Lent to grow closer to God? Take a moment to pray and ask Him to reveal what might be hindering your relationship with Him. Then, commit to surrendering it, trusting that He will fill that space with His presence and grace. 

As we journey through this Lenten season, let us embrace the opportunity to reflect, surrender, and grow closer to God. May we open our hearts to His transformative love and allow Him to work through us to reach others with the life-changing message of Jesus. Whether through fasting, prayer, service, or sharing the Gospel one person at a time, let this season be one of renewal and purpose. As we prepare our hearts for the hope of Easter, let us remember that true strength comes not from our own efforts, but from fully relying on Him. Let us walk forward in faith, trusting in His grace every step of the way.