I am pretty pumped for the Lenten season that is now upon us. I am ready for the opportunity (paired with a slight dollop of obligation) to grow closer to Our Lord through a good bit of sacrifice and a recognition that I need to spend more time in prayer.
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God--what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:2
As St. Paul said it, Lent is a golden opportunity to renounce the things of this world that hold me back from growing in holiness. It is a time to allow for the Lord transform me. Yesterday, I watched a short video of Scott Hahn explaining a new perspective we should take on the season of Lent in order to open our hearts more to God. In making sacrifices, spending more time in prayer, or whatever we choose to do, we are truly experiencing the weakness that comes as a result of our imperfect humanity. The sacrifices aren't easy, and they shouldn't be (because what's the sacrifice in that? ha)! But it is in the difficulty, we acknowledge our need for God's unending grace. In accepting my brokenness, I realize my need for God. This Lent, I am committing to spending 40 minutes in prayer whether in Mass, Adoration, and another form of prayer. I am taking 40 minutes out of my day and offering them up for this beautiful transformation of the Spirit. This is definitely a season of hope because God is ready to dump a hearty scoop of grace all upon us! Pretty cool, right? :)
I must admit that although, I am not jumping up and down at the thought of no sweets for quite awhile (what can I say? I like my sugar), I am thrilled that through it I will be reminded daily of the many blessings that I have been given. I will be going without a regular treat that I am able to indulge it, and hopefully will be learning to appreciate that I have been given more than enough. In 8 days (eeeep!), I will be travelling to Guatemala on a service immersion trip, and I hope these small sacrifices will help prepare me to live in solidarity with the people I will be serving. I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for me! So more on Guatemala later!
So here's to a purifying, grace-filled, and renewing Lenten season! cheers.
AL.
"Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer." Romans 12:12
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