Lent, A Time for God

by Suzanne Tredo

I always welcome the beginning of Lent. The winter holidays are too busy. It seems that the secular world has stolen so much of the solemnity of Christ's birth. Then just as I am getting my house put back together (and finding all the junk I've hidden to make my home look greeting card perfect) the quietness of Lent begins. I love the fact that there are no cards to send, no gifts to buy. No one wants a piece of me except for God. It's like he's been patiently waiting for this time of year. He's been waiting for me to slow down and remember him and his son's saving love and I am happy to give him all he wants. I am happy to allow him to refresh me and prepare me for Jesus' second coming.

I used to always give up something during Lent. Then I went through a phase where I thought it would be more meaningful to do something rather than not do. I still see merit in doing something, like adding prayer time or daily mass, but not at the exclusion of giving something up. I think there's something to be said for denying yourself for others. Isn't that what Christ did for us? It seems this is a great time to learn discipline, void our lives of something unnecessary, and allow God to fill our lives with whatever he chooses.

Some Facts about Lent:

Sundays are not counted in the 40 days of Lent because they are mini-Easters.

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ends with the opening of the Mass on Holy Thursday.

During Lent we prepare ourselves for the second coming of Christ.

To view important dates during lent and when to fast and abstain, visit www.catholiclifenews.com

About the author: Suzanne Tredo is the webmaster of catholiclifenews.com, a web-site designed to encourage the faithful. She is a devout Catholic who loves her faith and is happy to share it with others. Suzanne is proud to be a mother and wife. Please visit www.catholiclifenews.com. Enjoy the web-site which includes inspirational stories, a catholic trivia game, free newsletter registration and much more.
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