Ash Wednesday

This year, we're collaborating with writers across the Augustine Collective, a network of student-led Christian journals, to bring you a series of short devotional articles during this season of Lent, the 40-day period prior to Easter. Find this series also published by UChicago's CANA Journal and UC Berkeley's TAUG.

BY Louis DiModica, university of chicago

Lent is a sacred season in the Christian calendar, set aside as a time of reflection, prayer, and fasting in preparation for Easter—the celebration of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection. Rooted in ancient tradition, the forty days of Lent mirror the forty days Jesus spent in the wilderness, where He fasted and overcame temptation (Lk 4:1-13). During this season, we invite you to join us in thoughtful and prayerful reflection on Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and consider how His death and resurrection transform your life.

Why is Lent relevant to a Christian today?

When I moved to the University of Chicago, I was surprised to discover many Christians who had never heard of Lent. Perhaps as a result, few Christians today observe a strict fast for the entire forty days. Instead, many choose to abstain from actions or habits that distract them from their relationship with the Lord. In the past, I’ve known friends who have given up alcohol, dessert, or social media—commitments that, when kept, strengthened their sense of closeness in their walk with the Lord. While the practice of Lent has evolved over time, its core purpose remains unchanged: a period of intentional sacrifice aimed at provoking spiritual renewal.

Ryerson Dalton, UChicago ‘27

Is there a specific Bible verse or story that inspires you during Lent?

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. (Psalm 51:10-12)

Elena Tyvoll, UC Berkeley ‘28

What do you think is the most misunderstood aspect of Lent?

Lent is often misunderstood, particularly when it comes to its deeper symbolism and purpose. Many people associate this season primarily with self-denial, reducing it to the act of giving something up. However, Lent is fundamentally a time of spiritual preparation and reflection, much like Advent. It calls for an internal transformation—a reorientation of the heart and mind. Rather than focusing solely on personal sacrifice, Lent invites individuals to turn their attention toward Christ and the profound sacrifice He made on the cross. Any personal deprivation undertaken during this season pales in comparison to the magnitude of Christ’s redemptive act. Ultimately, Lent is not merely about abstention but about cultivating a posture of humility, gratitude, and deeper communion with God.

Sophia Eberwein, UChicago ‘25

How has Lent influenced your life?

Even after God rescues the people of Israel from Egypt, they continue to live in fear. Afraid of starving in the wilderness (Ex 16:3), terrified to enter the Promised Land of Canaan (Dt 1:28), they even consider returning to the bondage and enslavement of Egypt (Nu 13:3–4). How foolish the Israelites seemed—at least, that’s what I used to think! God’s assurance of protection could not have been more evident, yet they had so little faith and so quickly forgot His provision. But as I’ve attempted to practice Lent, I’ve come to realize just how much I resemble the Israelites in those moments. Even when intentionally sacrificing something for Christ’s sake, I repeatedly try to rely on my own strength. Yet Christ did not endure the cross and rise again so that we could lean on our own efforts—only to turn to Him when we feel insufficient. Instead, we are called to live in complete dependence on God. Lent has shown me just how counterintuitive—and yet how profoundly hopeful and promising—that kind of dependence truly is.

Elena Tyvoll, UC Berkeley ‘28

What is your hope for this Lent series?

My hope is that this series will provide a space for us to create a rhythm of constant reflection on our faith throughout the week, with the hope that this practice will become a lasting habit that extends beyond Lent.

Joaquin Rivera, Cornell ‘25