by Andrew Koslosky KGCHS, Contributing Writer
There are times when I sit and wonder how I got to this place spiritually in my life. Like many of us, I have had my ups and downs with my relationship with God. I suppose when we start to take that relationship for granted, we begin to drift further and further away.
As I have gotten older, I have learned the importance of using the tools God gives us to “come home” in our relationship with Him. The season of Lent is one of those wonderful tools. This meaningful season in The Christian Calendar serves as a period of reflection, repentance, and preparation leading up to Easter.
Spanning 40 days (excluding Sundays), it symbolizes the 40 days that Jesus spent fasting in the desert and enduring temptation. It provides for many of us, an opportunity to deepen our relationship with God, to reconnect spiritually, and to reset our lives according to His teachings.
Today we will explore the various ways one can reconnect with God during Lent, using prayer, personal reflection and community engagement. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent and starts this solemn season of reflection observed by millions of Christians around the world.
This significant day occupies a special place in the liturgical calendar, serving as a spiritual launchpad for the Lenten journey leading to Easter Sunday. The observance of Ash Wednesday has roots that trace back to the early Christian church.
While the specific practices have evolved, the essence of the day has remained constant. The tradition of marking the forehead with ashes as a sign of repentance is believed to have originated in the 8th century.However, the practice of using ashes dates back to ancient times as a symbol of mourning, mortality, and repentance in various cultures.
The ashes used on Ash Wednesday are typically derived from the burning of palm branches from the previous year’s Palm Sunday celebrations. On this day, clergy impose ashes on the foreheads of congregants in the shape of a cross, often accompanied by the words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return,” or “Repent and Believe in the Gospel.”
The words serve as reminders of our own human mortality and the call to repentance. This ritual serves as a reminder of our need to humble ourselves and return back to God. The ashes symbolize both grief over sin and the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ.
As the ashes fade, the journey of Lent begins, giving us a time to reconnect with our faith, reflect on personal journeys, and cultivate a spirit of renewal and grace.
The Lenten season invites participants to engage in introspection, self-denial, and acts of charity. Many Christians choose to give up certain luxuries or habits during this time as a means of drawing closer to God. Others may take on additional spiritual practices, such as increased prayer, scripture readings and reflection, or even community service.
The journey Lent involves recognizing this need and seeking a deeper relationship with God in anticipation of the joy of Easter. Most importantly, it offers a sacred space to evaluate one’s life, cleanse the soul of distractions, and nurture a spirit of humility. Engaging fully in this season can lead to remarkable growth and transformation spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.
One of the primary ways to reconnect with God during Lent is through prayer. Prayer serves as the foundation for a closer relationship and is vital for anyone wishing to deepen their faith. I find that dedicating specific times each day for prayers works for me.
Sometimes it can be structured prayers, such as the Lord’s Prayer or The Rosary, and sometimes something as simple as a spontaneous simple conversation with God. For you, maybe it’s as simple as beginning and ending your day with a brief time of prayer. This habit centers your thoughts and allows you to reflect on your day in light of God’s presence.
Many people find it helpful to write down their prayers. This helps clarify thoughts and emotions by providing a written record of spiritual growth throughout the Lenten season. Some folks find spending time in silence, focusing on their breath, the presence of God, or specific scripture passages as the best method.
This form of Meditation is a great way to foster a deeper sense of peace and connection. Others incorporate physical movement into their prayer routine by taking walks in nature or around their neighborhood. Whatever the method you use, you will find a willing participant on the other end of your prayers in God.
Scripture is a powerful tool during Lent. “Lectio Divina” is an ancient practice involving reading a passage of scripture multiple times, allowing different insights to emerge each time. Take time between readings to meditate on the meaning of the text and how it applies to your life.
Another interesting tool is “Thematic Study.” A thematic study is a research method that analyzes data to identify patterns and themes. Choose specific themes associated with Lent, such as sacrifice, forgiveness, or love, and seek out relevant scriptures.
Reflect on how God speaks to you through these passages. Utilize Daily Devotional Readings that focus on the Lenten season. Many resource guides have daily readings and reflections that encourage deeper understanding and connection with God.
Another popular tool available is Fasting. This is a traditional Lenten practice that many Christians observe in various forms. This discipline not only serves as a reminder of the sacrifices of Christ but also helps believers to detach from worldly distractions and refocus their attentions on God. There are several approaches to fasting, each with unique benefits.
“Food Fasting.” is commonly associated with Lent, and can involve abstaining from certain foods, such as meat, sweets, or alcohol. Many know of the tradition of abstaining from meat on Fridays during Lent. The focus should not only be on what is given up but also on prayer and reflection during mealtimes.
“Media Fasting” is a new one. In today’s world, social media and digital consumption can distract from spiritual growth. Consider abstaining from social media platforms or limiting screen time to cultivate more time for prayer and reflection. I had an uncle who believed in “Fasting from Negativity”. He challenged himself to refrain from complaining, gossiping, or engaging in negative talk.
Instead, he committed to speaking positively and uplifting others. He insisted that others around him do the same. I remember as a young man thinking how refreshing a view he had.
“Simplicity Fasting” or choosing to live more simply by decluttering your spaces or reducing unnecessary expenses. This can help shift the focus away from material possessions and toward spiritual wealth.
Whatever you choose, when engaging in fasting, it’s essential to embody a spirit of humility and purpose. Fasting is not merely an act of sacrifice but an opportunity to cultivate a dependent relationship with God. Use the hunger pangs or cravings you experience as a reminder to pray, meditate on scripture, or reflect on your relationship with God.
As Catholics, we are required to fast and abstain from meat on certain days during Lent. These practices are a form of penitence that honor the suffering and death of Jesus. Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59 are required to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.
Fasting means eating one full meal and two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal. Snacking between meals is not permitted.
Catholics between the ages of 14 and older are required to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and all Fridays during Lent. Abstinence does not include meat juices or liquid foods made from meat.
People who are ill, pregnant, or nursing are exempt from fasting and abstinence. People who are physically or mentally ill, including those with chronic illnesses, are exempt from fasting and abstinence. One should strongly consider the fasting on Good Friday to be continued until the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday night.
An essential part of Lent is the call to love and serve others. Compassionate acts can deepen one’s faith and reconnect with God’s heart for humanity. Consider donating to charitable organizations, churches, or local outreach programs.
Set a specific goal for how much you will give during Lent. Engage in intentional acts of kindness throughout the season. This could include volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply reaching out to a friend in need.
Many organizations offer sponsorship programs. By committing financial resources, you can directly impact someone’s life and experience the joy of giving.
Take the time to listen to someone’s story, offer support, and lift them up. Being present for others is a powerful act of love and community. Most important, Lent serves as a time for self-examination and repentance. It is an invitation to look inward and confront areas that require healing or transformation.
Take the time to reflect on your spiritual journey and where you are spiritually. Use these moments to engage with God in an honest assessment of your relationship with Him. Reflect on questions such as:
***Are there areas of my life where I’ve strayed or become complacent?
***What distractions pull me away from God?
***How can I cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude in my life?
While Lent is often a personal journey, it is also essential to remember the significance of community. Engaging in fellowship can enhance the spiritual experience and provide the much needed support we all need along the way. Consider participating with a group focused on Lenten reflections, scripture study, or prayer.
Engage in discussions with others that can enrich your understanding and provide accountability. Attend weekly worship or prayer services leading up to Easter. These gatherings can strengthen faith and provide opportunities for collective worship.
Engage in service projects with your church or local community organizations. Sharing your time and talents can build connections and serve as a practical expression of faith. By intentionally engaging in prayer, fasting, almsgiving, reflection, and community life during Lent, we all can reconnect with God in profound ways.
The Lenten season offers a unique opportunity to renew one’s spirit and deepen the journey of faith. It encourages self-examination and provides the tools we need to continue or get back on the right track.
Ultimately, the goal of this season is to prepare our hearts to truly celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, a wonderful time of hope, renewal, and divine love. Embrace my invitation to reconnect with God.
No matter where you are or where you have been in your life, God waits with open arms to welcome you home. If you are already on the road, He would love it if you brought someone along with you.
Reach out to others and help them use these tools.
Peace my Brothers and Sisters…until next week.
