An Opportunity for Transformation
“It is not that I have already taken hold of it or have already attained perfect maturity, but I continue my pursuit in hope that I may possess it, since I have indeed been taken possession of by Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:12)
“It is not that I have already taken hold of it or have already attained perfect maturity, but I continue my pursuit in hope that I may possess it, since I have indeed been taken possession of by Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:12)
In one of his homilies, Father Mike Schmitz said Lent is not just a season to focus on self-denial and discipline, but even more so, a time of training as His disciples. This refreshing mindset of the season invites and encourages us to focus on the bigger picture of what the Lord intended.
Lent is not simply about what we are doing or not doing, but rather what Christ is doing within us. Jesus is not fixating on the days we accidentally ate meat. He is focusing on transforming our hearts into something new, so that we may become more like Him.
This time of Lent can sometimes be the most difficult. At the beginning we are ready for the challenge. But now that we are getting closer to Easter, it is easy to feel less motivated. What an exciting opportunity though, that we get to rely on the Lord more fully to give us the strength to keep going.
Has my Lenten focus been more about what I can do or about what the Lord can do through me? How has the Lord already been transforming me this Lent?
Jesus, we surrender our Lenten promises to You. Grant us the grace and hope we need to persevere in our training as we journey alongside You to Calvary. Amen.
Christine Moore teaches religion and is the Director of Religious Education at the Cathedral School of St. Jude. She strives to inspire students to deepen their relationship with Christ and to encounter the beauty of the Catholic faith. Outside the classroom, Christine enjoys writing, hammocking, spending time with her loved ones, and playing volleyball and pickleball.
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