Today as Lent begins, we hear: “You are dust and to dust you shall return”. This begins our 40 days in the “desert” of fasting, almsgiving, prayer and penitence. What are Christ’s words to us as we commence this sojourn? “Return to me with your whole heart, with fasting, and weeping, and mourning” (Joel 2:12).
We pray for Jesus to have mercy on us and to wipe out our offenses; to wash us from guilt and cleanse our hearts. We long to be brought back into his presence. St. Paul tells us today in Holy Mass to recognize the inherent grace of this season. He implores: “Behold, now is a very acceptable time: behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Cor 6:2). Lent is, essentially, our yearly overt call to reform our lives, believe in the gospel and reaffirm our commitment to following Christ.
Never Fear Dust
For we know Christ is, “gracious and merciful . . . slow to anger, rich in kindness, and relenting in punishment” (Joel 2:13). Therefore, one does not have to fear approaching Jesus for forgiveness. We can confidently come to him asking for the joy of his salvation along with a willing and sustained spirit to do right going forward (Ps 51:12). Even though our mortal bodies will one day turn to dust, in the General Resurrection they will rise again fully intact and whole. “Then the just will reign with Christ for ever, glorified in body and soul” (CCC, 1060).
Recommit
Start a new life with Christ. Recommit to daily prayer and a more balanced life and schedule that honors God and increases your holiness and peace.
For some helpful ideas for growing in holiness this Lenten season, see my recent post “Ready, Set, Lent” on www.kimberlybruce.org.
Enjoy this Lent. Feel as if you’ve truly begun anew. Repent where needed, offer sacrifices and praise to God, and don’t forget the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Enjoy not only Christ’s Resurrection Easter Sunday morning, but your own renewed life, mentality and spirit.
