The basic pillars of Lent are Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving. Journeying Lent in an intentional manner should include growth in all three areas. When many of us were younger, Lent always started with the question, “What am I giving up for Lent?” A modern interpretation is what I am doing for Lent. Here are some ideas from each of the three pillars.
Prayer: Attend Mass more. If you attend Mass weekly, try attending a daily Mass—it is a simpler, shorter and often times more profound experience. If you attend Mass most weeks, make a concerted effort to not miss a weekend Mass during Lent—who knows, maybe this ends up being the push you need to fully embrace the Mass habit. Remember, Mass is a sending not a destination. We need Mass to replenish our souls so that we can go into the world and reflect Christ’s light with every encounter. We have 168 hours a week, how many are we using to intentionally grow as true disciples?
Fasting: This is where we are faced with the, “What am I giving up?” question. Instead of giving up something you love, how about giving up something that is keeping you from being your best self? Give up fast food or drinking, or maybe something a little harder to define such as gossip or speaking ill of someone else. Pope Francis always has great suggestions on fasting and here are some favorites: Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude. Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope. Fast from worries and have trust in God. Fast from complaints and contemplate simplicity. Fast from pressures and be prayerful. All great suggestions!
Almsgiving: Our checkbooks should reflect our life. If our #1 expense in life is a travel sport, then that in turn becomes our priority and in some cases our god. Use Lent as an intentional time to show your money that you are the boss. Choose a charity close to your heart; maybe an adoption agency or a service organization such as Catholic Relief Services, and donate. If you haven’t reflected on your investment at your parish, Lent can be a great time to reflect on this item. An increased gift in Lent can reflect a desire to grow deeper and more intentional in sacrifice. A great way to look at financial sacrifice is not the typical, “give until it hurts,” but rather a more modern interpretation of, “give until it feels good.” You’ll be amazed how much an intentional, sacrificial gift changes your outlook on life.
Engaging in these three practices during Lent is a time-tested and true way to grow closer to the Lord. Now head back to your journal and think about Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving.
Challenge:
How are you going to increase your PRAYER life?
What are you going to FAST from?
Where will you increase your ALMSGIVING?