When I was younger, I both loved and loathed the season of Lent. I’m sure you know exactly what I mean:
I loved Lent for its traditions and rituals: the ashes on our foreheads; the Stations of the Cross; the Rice Bowl collections in grade school; the solemnity of Holy Week liturgies; even the simplicity and starkness of the 40-day period.
But I often loathed it for the sacrifice it entailed: the offering-up of some pleasure; the boring Friday fish-stick suppers (no offense, Mom); and the focus on conversion and penance. When one is young, such self-denial seems pointless.
Funny, though, how perspectives often change as we mature in faith and wisdom. There’s an inherent desire, I believe, to simplify one’s life and motives, and a longing to let go of the baggage that weighs us down.
With the Lenten season beginning this coming week, take some time these coming days to pray about the ways in which these next 40 days might open us up to the grace our Lord longs to pour out into our lives:
- Will being more consistent with reading Scripture bring you into deeper relationship with Christ?
- Will sacrificing in some way for the intentions of another person strengthen your prayer life and your love for them?
- Will an act of charity or donation to a worthy cause (such as our Outreach program) open your heart to greater trust in God’s loving providence?
- Can celebrating the Sacrament of Reconciliation bring you much-needed healing?
- Might attending Friday evening Stations of the Cross or Monday Bible Study be a way to enter the season more intentionally?
What will make Lent truly special and different this year? How will the gift of these next 40 days open your heart more fully to Christ’s transforming mercy, grace and peace?
Be assured of my prayers for you as you prepare for the holy season ahead.