Now that we are just 2 days from Ash Wednesday, which is the beginning of Lent, we are reminded of the 40 days that Jesus withdrew into the desert before his crucifixion and finally Resurrection. Since my spiritual direction training, in the desert of Tucson, and remembering a saying in the chapel there, I have been pondering my own journey this lent.
Getting back to what my sister said. It is the small, everyday acts, one at a time, that make each of us holy. Holiness becomes accumulative for each of us. So, little by little, this is what I plan to do: Fast from hurting words, pessimism, bitterness, anger and selfishness. I will need to sit and ponder those times this has corrupted my day so I can figure out changes. I want to be prayerful, fill my heart with joy and be silent so I can listen. A bit more time for mass, daily prayers and the rosary will help me to pause and reflect.
Finally, to be conscious that: "The desert will lead you to your heart where I will speak." This quote from Hosea meets all who enter the chapel at the Redemptorist Renewal Center and in the contemplative weeks I spent there God did speak to me. Each Lent we each have that opportunity. How will each of us let the ears of our heart hear God these next 40 days? Ash Wednesday this week invites you to begin that journey
