As most of you know, tomorrow marks the beginning of Lent. As we prepare ourselves to embark on this journey, we are to be reminded that Lent can sometimes faintly tempt us to act falsely and then feel good about it. Like telling ourselves that if we measure ourselves by eating and drinking moderately during Lent, then maybe we don’t really have to measure ourselves in the same way at other times; if we avoid getting into arguments with a certain person during Lent, then maybe it doesn’t matter what we say to that person at other times; or that if we help the needy during Lent, then maybe we don’t really have to service others the rest of the time. Because after all, we did the right thing during Lent. If we’re not careful and let this happen, Lent could sometimes lead us not toward but away from God. Let’s make sure that during this Lent season our prayer, fasting and works of mercy are genuine. And pray that these genuine acts that come from the heart become a constant practice in our lives.
I wanted to wish you all a fruitful Lenten journey, and leave you with this prayer I read recently:
Lenten Prayer for Spiritual RenewalGod, heavenly Father, Without You I can do nothing. Lord, during this Lenten Season, Fill my heart with Your love Father, our source of life, Father of love, source of all blessings, Amen. |