- Feb 5, 2002
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As we neared the end of Lent, my mind was haunted by something a priest had said at the beginning of the liturgical season: “You should spend some time thinking about what you will take with you from this time.” So quickly do I run from the season of fasting, almsgiving and prayer right into the realm of Easterwith all its celebration and feasting.
While it’s not advertised as a negative season by any means, the season of Lent can have a negative connotation because we often choose to go without certain indulgences, pleasures or conveniences. But the encouragement from this priest reminded me that Lent is meant to be a positive experience for us. The time we spend in fasting, prayer and almsgiving is meant to inform our celebrating and feasting. The ways we are invited to participate in Lent are directed toward rooting our lives in virtue. Seen this way, the season of Lent — and even Easter — takes on a different light.
Continued below.
While it’s not advertised as a negative season by any means, the season of Lent can have a negative connotation because we often choose to go without certain indulgences, pleasures or conveniences. But the encouragement from this priest reminded me that Lent is meant to be a positive experience for us. The time we spend in fasting, prayer and almsgiving is meant to inform our celebrating and feasting. The ways we are invited to participate in Lent are directed toward rooting our lives in virtue. Seen this way, the season of Lent — and even Easter — takes on a different light.
The pursuit of virtue
Continued below.
Embracing temperance to strengthen your faith
Reflect on the positive purpose of Lent, rooting our lives in virtue through fasting, prayer, and temperance, preparing us for deeper joy.