Easter Season

This week the Easter Season begins.  Ash Wednesday will again remind us that we are dust and unto dust we shall return.  On that day we will begin a period of self-examination, sacrifice and penance.

   This week always brings the question, “What will I give up for Lent this year?”  Each of us must decide what importance we place on making a sacrifice for the one who sacrificed His life for us.  It is good to share in some way in sacrifice; to offer a bit of suffering to our Lord who suffered so greatly for us.

   I would hope that the choice we make is one that we have truly thought about and one that will require some faith and determination to achieve.  A few thoughts for consideration:

* Give up jealousy.  Thank God for the blessings He has bestowed on you and others.  Don’t count the cost, count the blessings.

* Give up anger.  When you feel anger rising stop, say a prayer and ask for the strength to forego your anger.

* Don’t give up anything; instead add something.  Go to daily Mass at least once during the week.

* Spend time with Jesus in the Eucharist.  Sit before Him and contemplate the pain and suffering He endured for you.

* Go on a retreat.  Take some time away from everything and focus completely on God and your relationship with Him.

* Take the time to visit a sick friend or shut-in.  The nursing homes are full of people who never have a visitor.  The few moments you might give to them would be a tremendous blessing.

   The list could go on and on but there is only one point to remember.  This is your Lenten offering; this is your gift to Jesus in recognition and thanks for the gift of your salvation.  What is the value of your soul?  That should guide you when deciding what you will sacrifice for Lent.

Lord guide us through this Easter Season.

Help us recognize all that was sacrificed for us.

May our Lenten sacrifice bring us closer to You.

Amen