As we begin our Lenten journey, it is always important to focus on preparing ourselves for the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus. The journey is equally important. How are you prepared to make the journey? Have you been prayerful about what you would like to see happen over the next 40 days? Opening yourself up to the assistance of the Holy Spirit is a great first step. The graces provided by the Holy Spirit can provide the difference between a wonderful Lenten walk and time wasted worshiping false gods. Lent does not necessarily have to be about giving up candy, soda or Facebook. It should be a time to focus on moving closer to God. Are you dedicating more of your time to listening to God? He wants to be in conversation with you. He is still offering advice. With the constant barrage of noise, can you hear Him? Commit yourself to a Lenten season filled with prayer, conversation and quiet time with God. Allow the Holy Spirit to inhabit every part of you. Look to Jesus as your model and ask yourself "What would He do in this situation?" It is a great time to make a new beginning. Take advantage of this break time that the Church provides you by making sure your Lenten journey is productive. I am praying that we all have a wonderful Lent and that we emerge renewed and inspired to bring God's message to the four corners of the world.
I am just beginning to dive into the beautiful, ancient devotion to the Five Wounds of Jesus, and I wanted to share a bit of the journey with you. It can feel a little overwhelming at first to look at the Crucifix this closely, but I’ve found such a gentle guide in St. Bernard of Clairvaux . In his Jubilee Rhythm on the Passion, Bernard doesn't treat the wounds of Jesus as distant historical facts or sights to be avoided. Instead, he approaches them with the tenderness of a friend, speaking directly to the feet, hands, side, and face of our Lord. For someone like me who is just starting out, his rhythm teaches that prayer isn't just about reciting words; it’s a holy hide-and-seek. Bernard invites us to literally hide ourselves within these wounds, seeing them as clefts in the rock where we can find shelter when our own lives feel turbulent or heavy. As I start this process, I’ve been practicing what I call gazing and greeting. Following Bernard’s lead, I look at the Crucifix an...
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