The purpose of any penance is
to restore our relationship with God.
For big events in our lives we spend time preparing.
We take time out of our ordinary day to think about it,
plan and get ready.
Lent is a time each year when we are given
40 days to prepare ourselves for Easter.
We take time out of our ordinary day to think about it,
plan and get ready.
Lent is a time each year when we are given
40 days to prepare ourselves for Easter.
It is a time of truth when we are able to take a look at ourselves, and our priorities to check they are in line with God's priorities for us. We stop to check we are living the way of life that God knows will bring us fulfilment and peace.
Lent is an opportunity each year to realign ourselves,
to get back on the right track,
and to check that the path we are on is towards God.
to get back on the right track,
and to check that the path we are on is towards God.
Traditionally the Church has always encouraged us to
pray, to fast and to give during the season of Lent.
These practices are tools to help help us examine our lives and
to work out where our motivation and focus is.
PRAYER:
Sometimes we forget that prayer is our connection to God. In our busy lives we think we don't have time to add more into our days. During Lent you may like to try some small prayers that can become part of your day.
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Before you get out of bed try, 'God be with me today in my thoughts, in my words and in my actions and may my heart be focussed on you.'
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When someone annoys you or you feel frustrated your prayer may be, 'God give me patience and understanding'.
Finally at night as you close your eyes you may finish the day with thanks for everything that has happened and for the people you have met - bring to mind your whole day and the people and things that have been part of it.
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When someone does something for you, you might pray 'Thank you God for generous hearts'. |
If you do this daily, before long you will realise just how
close you and your loving God are.
close you and your loving God are.
FASTING:
Fasting is not just about food.
During lent you could try fasting from gossip, or spreading rumours or making judgements of people.
You may also like to stop listening to the 'destructive' inner voice that chips away at your self-belief.
Instead replace it with positive self-affirming statements.
During lent you could try fasting from gossip, or spreading rumours or making judgements of people.
You may also like to stop listening to the 'destructive' inner voice that chips away at your self-belief.
Instead replace it with positive self-affirming statements.
GIVING:
Give encouragement to those who are needing a boost, give time to someone who is lonely or stuck in a hospital or in a rest home. Give your brothers and sisters time by playing a game with them or helping them with their homework.
Give someone your ear for a moment to really listen to what they are saying instead of thinking about the next thing you need to do. Give your life to God each morning, trusting that God will provide. Give freely your smiles and during Lent this year give freely of your love too. |