The family’s rhythm continued as February unfolded, and Marta’s birthday grew nearer. Amid the stress of final exams, assignments, and the usual pressures of school life, Marta’s effervescent excitement became a bright light in the middle of all the stress. She was, as always, filled with joy as her birthday approached, and her youthful enthusiasm was enough to lift everyone's spirits, even with the looming exams.
Zac, forever thoughtful and deliberate, was busy crafting the perfect birthday surprise for Marta. Over the past few weeks, he had been carefully sneaking in questions about her preferences, trying to maintain the element of surprise. Marta, however, was more than ready for the game. She was dropping small hints, grinning every time she mentioned her “secret wishes” playfully keeping them on their toes with her mischievous hints. It was a dance—her innocent trickery only adding to the endearing charm she brought to each moment.
One evening, during dinner, Marta threw out a playful question. “Do you think my birthday will fall during Lent this year?”
It caught me off guard. “Don’t worry, Lent doesn’t start until March,” I reassured her with a smile. But Marta, with that gleam in her eye, added, “Usually my birthday lands on a chicken Lent!”
There was a moment of confusion before the laughter started. Marta had cleverly combined two things she loved—chicken and the concept of Lent—into one quirky, Marta-style interpretation of the world. And it was moments like these that made her so uniquely her—bright, joyful, and mischievous.
As February drew to a close, our discussions of Lent grew more frequent. Marta, being the youngest, often asked questions, trying to make sense of why we chose to make sacrifices during this period. One evening, after dinner, she asked, “Why do we have to give up things, Mum? God gave us food. Why can’t we just enjoy it?”
Zac, ever the wise one, was quick to answer, “Marta, we give up certain things to remember the sacrifices Jesus made. It helps us focus on what really matters in life.”
But I could see Marta wasn’t fully convinced. So, I added, “Think of it this way, Marta: Lent is about self-discipline. When you say ‘no ’ to something you love, like your favourite foods, it helps you take control over your desires. You’re choosing to let your spirit guide your actions instead of your body. Just like how Jesus fasted for forty days in the desert, we practice Lent to strengthen our willpower. Even when Jesus was tempted by Satan, He remained steadfast. So, through Lent, we learn to rise above the material world and focus on the things that truly matter to us—and to God.”
Marta, always thinking, smiled as she processed my words. Then, with a grin, she added, “Well, Mum, I also fast from Chocos ,the breakfast cereal every year because I love them so much!”
I couldn’t help but laugh. “Yes, Marta, you’re making great strides in your spiritual journey by giving up those Chocos,” I teased, and she beamed with pride.
Zac, ever the philosopher, added his own wisdom. “Marta, society often tells us to be passionate about everything, from food to career. But true passion comes from serving others and focusing on our faith. Lent teaches us that balance—sacrificing for something greater.”
“And,” I chimed in, “while the world might urge us to be more passionate, we need to remember to teach future generations the foundation of our faith. Lent isn’t just about fasting; it’s about character building—spiritually and emotionally.”
I glanced over at Marta, knowing her inquisitive nature would prompt her to seek further understanding. “And when you face temptation, like Jesus did in the desert, you can always respond with His words: ‘Man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Mathew4, 1-11).
Marta, deep in thought, suddenly asked, “Mum, my school friends told me their parents let them off the hook for abstaining from food because they’re too young. But I don’t think that’s right.”
“Really?” I raised an eyebrow. “So, your friends know how to use social media and order things online?”
“Oh yes, they’re experts!” Marta said, her eyes lighting up.
“Well then,” I said, “if they’re so good with technology, why not try fasting from social media for Lent? It’s a detox from all the distractions and unnecessary noise.”
Marta blinked in surprise, and then a thoughtful smile spread across her face. “That sounds tough!”
“Exactly,” I said with a grin. “Fasting isn’t just about food. It’s about detoxing our minds and hearts too. By doing that, we grow spiritually.”
As we continued our conversation, I could see Marta’s understanding of Lent shifting. It wasn’t just about sacrifice anymore—it was about self-discipline, spiritual growth, and a deeper connection with God. It wasn’t going to be easy, but the journey, as Zac often reminded her, was what truly mattered.
That evening, as we gathered for family prayer, their grandmother shared some of her favorite Bible verses while the room was filled with the calming scent of lavender incense.
“He will command His angels concerning you, And they will lift you up in their hands,
So that you will not strike your foot against a stone.” (Psalm 91:11-12)
Her voice was soft and reassuring, and it was in that moment that I realized the profound meaning of her words. Sometimes, amidst the noise of daily life, we need that angelic lift to refocus on what truly matters. It reminded me of why we start Lent on Ash Wednesday with the stark words from Genesis: “You are dust, and to dust you shall return.” ( Genesis 3:19).
It’s a reminder of our true destination, urging us not to be fixated on the distractions of the journey.
"Let's send our friends off with a heartfelt wish for a blessed and transformative Lent," I said, a wave of peaceful calm washing over the family.
Amid the stress of exams, the excitement for Marta’s birthday, and the start of Lent, the family began to find balance. In a world full of distractions, they held on to the simple, beautiful things: family, faith, and the timeless lessons passed down through the generations.
