“When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:3-4
Lent is a season of self-reflection, sacrifice, and transformation. Many view it as a time to give up something, some give up sweets, social media, or bad habits. But what if this Lent, we chose to add something instead? What if we chose to add inclusion, compassion, and intentional action for those who are often overlooked—neurodivergent, disabled and special need individuals?
When Jesus spoke about fasting and sacrifice, He emphasized the heart behind our actions. True inclusion isn’t about performative gestures. It’s about a heart transformation that shifts from simply acknowledging people with disabilities to actively making space for them.
As a special needs parenting coach, I often hear stories from families who feel unseen, unheard, unsupported and many times wrongfully judged in their communities. But guess what? I experience it as well, see, I am also a special needs mom. Parents struggle to find welcoming schools, workplaces, and even churches for their children. Inclusion is so much more than polices, it’s about hearts willing to embrace differences and hands ready to serve.
How can we support and embrace the neurodivergent, disabled and special needs community?
- Reflect – What barriers exist in your home, church, workplace, or community that prevent true inclusion?
- Act – Choose one intentional step to break down those barriers. It could be as simple as learning about autism, ADHD, or dyslexia, or as impactful as advocating for sensory-friendly church services.
- Commit – This Lent, instead of just giving something up, commit to making a lasting change.
Join me for the next 40 days as we reflect on Lent through the lens of inclusion. Let’s challenge ourselves to be the hands and feet of Jesus, ensuring that neurodivergent, disabled and special needs individuals are not just accommodated but truly embraced.
Want more guidance on how to nurture children with special needs? Get my book Embracing Possibilities: Nurturing Children with Special Needs https://a.co/d/514fwOY.
You may also download our FREE resource “Your 1st 5 Steps After Diagnosis“. Feel free to share with those who you think will benefit.
Other blog posts that may interest you include
- My Child Has Been Diagnosed, Now What?
- Understanding Neurodiversity, Disability and Special Needs
- Dual Intents
