Kingdom Revelator Australia – Issue 45
February marks an important point in the Church year as we begin the liturgical season of Lent – yes, celebrations have come to an end as we transition from feasting into fasting. It’s Lent already! For many of us, this is that time of the year when we fret about how to go the extra mile during these forty days, as we attempt to unite ourselves more closely to the mystery of Jesus in the desert (CCC 540).
This month’s issue explores ways in which we can grow in intimacy with Christ by various means such as attendance at Holy Mass on Sundays, saying ‘yes’ to the Lord, living chaste and holy lives and so forth. Though these can sometimes appear to be a leap into the dark, we must remind ourselves that it was the Holy Spirit who led Jesus into the wilderness to be tried and tested. The same Holy Spirit will guide and help us on our Lenten journey.
Here are some handy tips for making the most of Lent this year:
Prayer – Lent is a time when God calls each one of us to contemplate the passion, death and resurrection of His Son – how you do this is your choice. It might be by praying the Stations of the Cross or the Sorrowful Mysteries, watching ‘The Passion of the Christ’, or reflecting on Gospel passages describing Jesus’passion and death.
Fasting – As soon as we hear the word ‘fasting’, let’s not jump to the conclusion that we must give up chocolate or coffee or anything that tastes nice for that matter. Lent is an opportune time to voluntarily deny ourselves something that we really enjoy. It could mean Instagram, that one item of makeup we think we simply cannot live without, snacking between meals, sleeping for those extra fifteen minutes… the possibilities are endless.
Almsgiving – This is not just for adults. The general rule is to give and not to receive; we can give someone a listening ear, a smile, our time or our talents. It is from this act of giving that we grow in the virtue of love.
Let us pray that this Lent we will grow in holiness and love.