Dear Ursuline,
As we journey through the holy season Lent this year, let the sacrifices we make out of our love for Jesus help us to grow closer to Him, hear His voice despite the noise of our world, and help free us from worldly attachments. Three simple words and key practices for the spiritual life can guide our Lenten journey, yet give us so many opportunities to grow in holiness while dying to self during these next 40 (actually 46) days of Lent: PRAY, FAST, GIVE
We are called to imitate Jesus who is our model for life and in Lent with prayer, fasting, and generosity.
PRAY - God wants us to draw closer to him in relationship, hear his voice, be the best versions of ourselves. In order to do this we must spend time each and every day seeking God through scripture readings and prayer. For our Lent to be holy we must draw closer to God in prayer which prepares us for the struggles and temptations against the devil. This Lenten discipline of prayer can be enriched by having a prayer partner or spiritual director.
FAST - Denying self, giving up, and sacrificing for the greater glory of God is what we are called to do as disciples of Christ while taking up our cross and following Him.
GIVE - We are called to be generous with our time, talents, and treasure. Our generosity is not to promote ourselves, but to die to ourselves and act with charity towards others. This Lent, may we see God as a Father and that we are his children. Our Heavenly Father knows what we need and provides for us. We must seek first the Kingdom of God and trust in Him fully while giving and not counting the cost.
Prayers for many blessings this Lent for you that it is a time set apart to grow deeper in spirituality, holiness, and faith in God. Let this Lent be the best one yet where we praise God through our soul, body, mind, and will!
Christ's Peace!
Michelle Patterson
Theology Teacher
