As Lent 2026 begins, we’re exploring this year’s Church of England theme, Draw Near: Life-Giving Habits, and thinking about how it can inspire our daily lives.

Lent isn’t just about giving things up (like chocolate etc.). It is about stopping, taking a breath, and choosing habits that help us grow closer to God.

Draw Near is all about showing us how the little habits we choose each day can help us get closer to God. And here’s the cool part… as we take steps toward Him, God moves closer to us too. It’s like a friendship that grows stronger every time we make the effort. We become more like Jesus, day by day. 

This is a chance to slow down, try something new, and see how small changes can make a surprisingly big difference.

And even if you follow a different faith or none at all, these ideas can still help us grow in kindness, courage, and how we treat ourselves and others.

This week we are thinking about gratitude and belonging.

What are you thankful for?  As you watch this little film/song, think of at least 3 things that you are thankful for in your life.

Share some of your thoughts with your class.

Being thankful is so important. It helps us get perspective and is important for our mental health and wellbeing.

Here is what the Bible says about thankfulness and gratitude:

Always be joyful. Pray continually and give thanks whatever happens. That is what God wants for you in Christ Jesus.^{1 Thessalonians 5:16-18}

Why not challenge yourself this week? Next time you feel a bit grumpy/stressed/frustrated/angry…stop, take a breath and think of something that you are thankful for.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, we have so much to be thankful for. No matter how challenging life can be, there is always something that we can thank you for.  Help us to develop an attitude of gratitude. Amen

*Image be thankful. flickr photo by mom2sofia shared under a Creative Commons (BY 2.0) license