It’s Ash Wednesday!
Today we start a special period of fasting, charity or almsgiving, and prayer. On the surface it looks like today is just a day Catholics get ashes on their face and give up their favorite food or indulgence. Or maybe give up a bad habit or finally go in that diet we wanted to do.
But Lent is a special season of preparing ourselves to be holy and faithful disciples. We are all called to be saints. We are all called to be holy. Now is the time we make specific plans for how to move closer to God.
As I have said before we should plan to be more holy at the end of Lent than we were at the beginning. We can give up everything and still not reach that goal. But if we do give something up it should be things that we will reflect on their loss and turn to Jesus Christ more. Otherwise, giving up is of no benefit at all. It’s like trying to do a physical exercise to be stronger but doing it wrong and getting no result. A waste of time.
So, this Lent maybe we give up harsh language and moments we talk with others that do not lift up but tear down.
Maybe this Lent, we follow Pope Leo’s recommendation to use Lent to change how we relate to people and change our relationships. The goal being that they begin to look at us like someone that brings peace and love to the relationship. Charity begins with those in our life now. And extends to strangers.
Maybe we give to those we love and work with, kind words and support. Support others in their need and struggles.
Let’s start this great season of Lent by being careful how we engage with others and always bring words of encouragement and friendship. That’s the first step.
What else are you going to do so you can become holy this Lent?
Deacon Tony Pynes 
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