Devotion: Lent brings time to reflect

Ash Wednesday and New Year’s Day are both a time for starting over. We make New Year’s resolutions, perhaps even able to keep some for a little while.

We tend to individualize Lent, centering on ourselves. Do you think of Lent in terms of giving up some thing or things? Self-discipline is good, but rather than giving up something, Jesus calls for us to give! Lent is a time to share our prayers and love with those in need.

Ash Wednesday is a day to repent but not to bewail or be crushed. When we set a Lenten goal for ourselves, then fasting and abstinence help us keep on track.

In order to observe a Holy Lent, we should slow down and reorient ourselves to God and our neighbor; we should reflect on our own mortality.

Think of the splendor of light - the Brightness of Easter, Lighting the New Fire and Alleluia being said and sung again. For Jewish people, the menorah is a symbol of light. And Hindu Dewali, a festival of lights, symbolizes victory of good over evil. All show that light conquers darkness.

Lent is indeed a gift, a period of forty days that allows us to proceed with care and take additional time for meditation and prayer.

In the happy moments, Praise God.

In the difficult moments, Seek God.

In the quiet moments, Trust God.

In every moment, Thank God.