A time of new birth
Spring, while not yet upon us, is a time of awakening, a time of new birth, a harbinger of new life and great hope. The earth begins to rise from its slumber and to stir the soul with hints of what is yet to come.
So also is it with Lent. We know that soon we will experience the risen Lord, who from death brings new life, salvation, and peace. Lent foreshadows his passion, death, and resurrection, giving us time to prepare ourselves worthy to receive the magnificent gift of his sacrifice.
Prayer, fasting, and acts of charity are appropriate activities to embrace during Lent; activities that can be transformed into habits that carry forward throughout one’s life.
Daily prayer, such as Morning and Evening Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours, contemplative prayer or silent reflection and conversation with God, offer wonderful ways to improve your prayer life.
Fasting represents a giving up, a sacrifice of something; it represents a form of spiritual training that will allow us to overcome evil. Giving up things that are highly desirable is a way to learn control over some part of your life, which leads to greater self-discipline. Lent is about spiritual results and fasting should be done for God’s glory and your own spiritual growth.
While fasting, it is important to replace what has been given up with something positive. As Jonathan Bennett writes “The best way to remove vice is to cultivate virtue.” Look for ways to help others and fill the void left by the fasting.
During this season of Lent seek out ways to spend quality time with God. Open your heart to hear his voice. Find a quiet place, be silent, and listen, for He tells us to “Be still and know that I am God” [Ps 46:10].
