Into the desert

Ash Wednesday begins the penitential season of Lent.  Every year it sneaks up so quickly that admittedly, it catches me off guard.  However, Lent is actually my absolute favorite liturgical season of all.  I know this may seem odd, but it is the truth.

Preparation, patience, and penance help me to seek a deeper relationship with God. 

I prepare my heart for the Resurrection by delving into God's Word more regularly and with a deeper focus on a daily basis.  It is not how long or how much I read.  It is the interior reflection of how God speaks to me.  In addition to prayer and reading God's Word, I will partake in penance, fasting and almsgiving.

I try my best to be more patient with others, but first I need to allow space to sit with my own negative thoughts and intolerances and give them to the Lord so as to become more patient with myself. 

I have forty days to offer up private acts of penance as well as go to the sacrament of Reconciliation and receive forgiveness and penance.  It does well for my soul to be clean and fresh for the Easter celebration. 

This season is my favorite because it is so rich in soul searching while taking on a posture of humility.  The forty days set aside can seem so very long to be disciplined in carrying a cross, but it connects us so deeply with Jesus and His long time in the desert. 

Lent should "feel" different than other seasons.  The yearning for the Alleluias to return in church as well the Glorias give us pause.  Waiting and listening quietly for God's loving voice to be spoken into our hearts helps us move with more intent and purpose. 

These are a few of my thoughts.  If you wish to share your feelings and or practices about Lent, please comment on my blog. 

I wish everyone a holy time in the desert.