Hoi Li's Lent Message: 40 Days of Fasting, Prayer & Financial Discipline – A CPA's Blessing for 2026
In-law, Blessed Lent! As your CPA in-law, I want to extend my warmest greetings to all our Christian brothers and sisters as we prepare for the sacred season of Lent 2026 (Ash Wednesday, March 5 - Easter Sunday, April 19, 2026).
This is a time of fasting, prayer, penance, and almsgiving—a 40-day journey of spiritual renewal. But as someone who audits balance sheets, I also see Lent as a powerful framework for Financial Discipline. Here is how the Lenten protocol can transform your 2026 "Bag."
1. Fasting: The Sacrifice of Excess
Whether you're giving up meat on Fridays, chocolate, or social media, fasting is about Intentional Sacrifice. In finance, this is called "Cutting the Fat." Use these 40 days to identify one financial habit you can sacrifice—maybe it's daily coffee runs, impulse shopping, or subscription services you don't use. Redirect that money into savings or debt repayment. Small sacrifices compound into big wins.
2. Prayer: The Audit of the Heart
Lent is a time for deeper prayer and reflection. This is your spiritual "Reconciliation"—a chance to check your alignment with your values. In finance, we call this Values-Based Budgeting. Ask yourself: Are my spending habits aligned with my faith? Am I stewarding my resources in a way that honors God? Use this season to pray over your finances and seek clarity on your 2026 goals.
3. Almsgiving: The Protocol of Generosity
Lent calls us to give to those in need. This is the original "Charitable Giving Protocol." Whether it's tithing to your church, supporting a local charity, or helping a neighbor, almsgiving reminds us that wealth is a tool for service, not selfishness. Set aside a portion of your income this Lent for giving. Not only is it spiritually rewarding, but it also keeps your heart soft and your priorities straight.
4. Reflection: The Long-Term Vision
The 40 days of Lent mirror the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert. This is a time for Deep Reflection and preparation for the resurrection. In finance, this is your "Annual Review." Use this season to reflect on your 2025 financial performance, identify lessons learned, and set a clear vision for the rest of 2026. Easter is coming—make sure your financial resurrection is ready!
Hoi Li's Lenten Blessing:
"May these 40 days bring you closer to God and closer to your financial goals. Sacrifice with purpose, pray with intention, and give with joy. Blessed Lent, in-law! "