Lent, Week 2 ~ let’s approach it as if we are beginning a trip…
For many people, the start of Lent is met with a sense of dread or a feeling that these forty days are the longest days on the calendar. Others also believe that it has to be forty days of somber living. Although I admit that Lent is a time when we are called to deeper prayer, fasting and almsgiving, it doesn’t mean that they are days that lack joy, happiness and excitement. I realize that many among us don’t look forward to Lent and may already be asking, “How many more days until Easter?” However, I would like for each of us to make the decision that this Lent will be different. I propose that we enter this graced season with a new attitude; an attitude that will treat the Lenten Season as if we were taking an adventurous trip with family or good friends.
I enjoy traveling and fortunately I have had the opportunity to visit many of the fifty states, as well as various world countries. Each time I venture to a new destination I enjoy learning about its history, the culture and customs, the people, the interesting facts and fascinating sites. The newness of the trip is always met with excitement.
So, why not begin this “Lenten trip” in the same manner….with excitement and a sense that we will uncover something new, something grand and something spectacular.
Some might balk and say Lent could never be all of those things…new, grand and spectacular. I ask, why not? Why can’t this sacred time of year be an adventurous trip when, through my time in prayer, learn more about this loving God, who came to destroy sin and death? And through my fasting and reliance on God, experience the fascinating grace that can only come from God, when lives are changed forever? Why can’t this be a time when, through my sharing with those in need, I am overwhelmed by the deep and abiding faithfulness of God?
Yet, for any of that to happen…I must first decide to enter into the “trip” and be open to the adventure that God has in store for me. Lent offers a multitude of opportunities for us to enjoy this “vacation” from the ordinary. Just look at the parish calendar of events for Lent; it is filled with guided tours, new destinations, daily excursions, and familiar lodging. Why not enter into the season and enjoy the trip.
May your Lenten Journey be adventurous!
God Bless You,
Father Kennedy