Lent is a period to prepare ourselves for the celebration of Easter. As a process of preparation, we recall our own Baptism and do penance. Self-denial is what Jesus requires from us, in order to be his disciples. Self-denial is about making sacrifice, focusing on the Cross, and reminding ourselves of what Jesus gave up for our sake.
During Lent, the usual question, that is asked, is, “What do you give up for Lent?” Even though we are already in the second week of Lent, here are some suggestions to give up, out of our love for Jesus:
- Give up grumbling, instead, give thanks in everything;
- Give up five to ten minutes of personal entertainment, and spend that time in reading the Bible or in personal prayer;
- Give up looking at other people’s weaknesses and mistakes, but concentrate on their best attributes and characteristics;
- Give up your worries and anxieties, instead, trust in God and place them before God;
- Give up your loneliness, replacing it by visiting someone, who is lonely or sick;
- Give up judging others by appearance and by the standard of the world, instead, leave to Jesus to judge.
Wishing you a fruitful Lent,
Fr. Arul Joseph V.
0 Comments