Great Lent is a period of profound prayer, repentance, and transformation. As Orthodox Christians, we journey together toward Pascha, seeking God’s help to cleanse our hearts and renew our lives. However, at times, we overlook where that change should start.
It begins at home.
This Sunday, we remember St. Mary of Egypt, one of the most powerful examples of repentance and transformation in our Church. Her life reminds us that no one is too far gone, no sin is too great, and no heart is too hardened for God’s mercy to reach. Just as her journey began with one small step toward Christ, our family’s journey to forgiveness begins with one step too—a word, a hug, a tear, or a quiet “I’m sorry.”
St. Mary’s Story: A Radical Shift
St. Mary’s early life was filled with sin. She lived entirely for herself and for pleasure. However, everything changed when she found herself unable to enter the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem. It wasn’t a locked door—it was her sins that kept her away. 
In that moment of deep truth, she looked up at an icon of the Theotokos, broke down in tears, and prayed, “Let me enter, and I will change my life.”
And she did. She left everything behind and ventured into the desert to seek Christ alone. Decades later, she would be found not as a lost soul, but as a holy woman—radiating the peace of a life reconciled to God.
What Does This Mean for Our Families?
We may not live in deserts or contend with wild beasts, but the struggle for holiness is just as real in the home. During Lent, the battle often lies in the small things:
- A parent losing patience after a long day
- Siblings fighting over toys or space
- Silence after an argument that lasts too long
- Apologies left unsaid; hearts still bruised
St. Mary of Egypt reminds us that true change starts with humility—acknowledging our mistakes and having the courage to turn around. Lent is the perfect time for this.
Model Forgiveness Through Your Actions
Children learn to forgive by observing their parents. When they hear us say, “I was wrong. Will you forgive me?” they’ll be more likely to follow suit. When they witness us forgiving them with gentleness and love, even in times of fatigue or hurt, they’ll grasp that forgiveness is not a form of weakness—it’s a show of strength.
However, there’s another powerful method for teaching forgiveness: when parents ask one another for forgiveness in front of their children. This might feel awkward initially, but it’s one of the most valuable lessons we can impart.
Teaching Moment: Parents Asking for Forgiveness
When parents ask each other for forgiveness—whether for a sharp word, impatience, or misunderstanding—it teaches children that no one is perfect and that we all need grace. Children don’t just hear the words “I’m sorry”; they see the humility and love behind them. It shows them that seeking forgiveness isn’t just about saying the right words; it’s about healing relationships and growing closer.
It also allows children to do the same in their own lives. When they notice that even the adults they admire require forgiveness, they’ll understand that it’s acceptable to acknowledge their mistakes and seek forgiveness as well. This small yet impactful act can foster a culture of forgiveness at home that endures long after Lent.
Practical Ways to Live This Out
Here are some practical ways for a family to practice forgiveness:
- Create a “Forgiveness Moment”
Each night before bed, take a few minutes to ask each other:
“Did I hurt you today?” or “Is there something I need to apologize for?”
Make it safe and gentle. This can be a sacred time of healing.
- Pray the Jesus Prayer together
Embrace the quiet of Lent to teach your children this powerful prayer:
“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” Allow it to influence your tone, reactions, and words toward one another.
- Share the Story of St. Mary
Present her life in a way that’s friendly for children. Highlight that regardless of how many mistakes we make, God never gives up on us—and we should never give up on each other.
- Lead by Example
Sometimes, the most powerful words a child can hear from a parent are:
“I was wrong. I’m sorry.”
That simple phrase can teach them more than a thousand sermons.
The Holiest Place is the Home
The Church is where we worship, but the home is where we practice what we believe. Forgiveness, patience, mercy, and love aren’t just Lenten goals; they’re daily necessities in family life. And when we fail- because we all will- we remember St. Mary of Egypt and try again.
Let this be the Lent when your family discovers that the path to holiness doesn’t begin in the desert—it begins in the kitchen, the living room, or even the backseat of the car.
Forgiveness starts at home. Let’s travel that path together.