The 14th of February, known as Valentine's Day, is a day set apart for expressing and acknowledging love for our beloved ones. However, this year on this day, we enter into the Lenten season — the season of grace. Indeed, what an opportune time to embrace lent and express our love to our Savior who died loving us.
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season in the liturgical calendar. This period, lasting for 40 days (excluding Sundays) leading up to Easter, is a time of reflection, repentance, and preparation for the celebration of Christ's resurrection. It's an opportune time of grace as we participate in the suffering and death of our Savior Jesus Christ through praying, fasting, and almsgiving.
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The imposition of ashes on the forehead in the shape of a cross serves as a powerful symbol of human mortality and the need for humility. It's a reminder that we are dust, and to dust, we shall return (Genesis 3:19). The imposition of ashes reminds each individual to acknowledge their dependence on God and their limited time on earth. Lent is a season of repentance, encouraging believers of the Catholic faith to turn away from sin and turn towards God. The ashes, combined with the call to "repent and believe in the Gospel" (Mark 1:15), inspire a reevaluation of one's life and a commitment to positive change.
The season of Lent traditionally involves fasting or sacrificing certain comforts as a way of participating in Christ's self-discipline during His 40 days in the wilderness. This practice encourages us to detach from worldly distractions, fostering a deeper connection with God. It's a time of intensified prayer, drawing ourselves closer to God through contemplation, meditation, and a heightened awareness of spiritual matters. The goal is to deepen the relationship with the Divine and seek guidance for personal transformation. Another essential aspect of Lent is almsgiving, which involves acts of charity and generosity. This reflects a commitment to love and serve others, especially those in need, in imitation of Christ's selfless love.
The entire Lenten journey is a preparation for the celebration of Easter — the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The period of fasting, prayer, and repentance culminates in the joyous proclamation of Christ's victory over sin and death. Lent provides an opportunity for spiritual renewal and growth. It's a time to assess one's spiritual life, identify areas that need improvement, and take intentional steps towards becoming a more faithful and compassionate disciple of Christ. Thus, it is truly 'embracing lent: showing love to our Saviour.' Reflecting on these themes during Ash Wednesday and throughout Lent will lead us to a more profound understanding of one's faith and a transformative experience that extends beyond the 40-day period.
Wishing you all a very happy and grace-filled season of Lent.