Historically, Lent was a season of preparation for baptism; a time when ordinary believers were invited to examine their lives honestly, return to prayer, and to walk more deliberately with Christ.
Tomorrow is Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent.
The word “shrove” comes from the old English word shrive, meaning to confess and receive absolution. Historically, it was a day when Christians would examine their consciences, confess their sins, and prepare themselves spiritually for the forty days ahead. It also became a very practical preparation day. Rich foods like eggs, butter, and sugar were traditionally used up before the Lenten fast began, which is why in the UK we eat pancakes.
So beneath the delicious pancakes, Shrove Tuesday is really about this: Pausing, clearing out, & quietly readying for the season ahead. It stands at the threshold of Lent, gently inviting us to prepare our hearts before we begin to walk.
And if you are sensing that you want this Lent to feel different, quieter, steadier, more rooted, I created something that I hope will help:
The Pilgrimage Journal – A Companion for the Sacred Path of Lent
The Pilgrimage Journal is a contemplative guide designed to help you walk Lent slowly and intentionally.
It isn’t a rigid daily plan. It doesn’t assume that you have unlimited time or energy, instead it offers structure without pressure.
Inside you’ll find:
• Weekly pilgrimage invitations to orient your heart
• Rich Sunday entries with Scripture, reflection, journaling prompts, nature-based practices, and a simple candle ritual
• Holy Week reflections so those sacred days are walked, not rushed
• A deep attentiveness to the natural world as a place of encounter with God
It is grounded in historic Christian faith and woven through with the wisdom of the natural year. It holds the season gently, so you are able to inhabit it honestly.
If you would like to begin with it this week, you can use the code LENT20 for 20% off your purchase.
A Unique Bible Reading Companion for Lent
Alongside the journal, I’ve created a free companion:
Noticing with John: A Gentle Lenten Invitation
This is not a reading schedule, it’s a way to practice of attention.
Each day:
- We read a small portion of the Gospel of John.
- We then notice one word, image, or phrase.
- We sit with it.
There’s no pressure to “finish.” No commentary to master. Just the slow unfolding of John’s Gospel across forty days. It’s a beautiful accompaniment to The Pilgrimage Journal.
Lent is coming! Not as a burden, not as another thing we must do, but as an invitation.
To return. To walk. To notice.
If you’re ready to step onto that path, the companion is waiting for you.
From my home to yours,
