For Orthodox Christians of the Byzantine-Rite, the beginning of Lent (March 14) is quickly approaching. Many persons have reduced Lent to “giving up” something which they consider a bad habit (smoking or drinking) or pleasurable indulgence (chocolate or sweets); however, the season of Lent offers us an opportunity for far more. By increasing our spiritual efforts and reconsidering our priorities in this life, Lent affords us the opportunity for spiritual rebirth.
To make best use of this sacred season, let us carefully and prayerfully examine our personal weaknesses and failings (sins), as well as external circumstances that seem most detrimental to our spiritual and emotional health. Having identified the temptations and hindrances to our faith, we can maximize our spiritual renewal and growth during the lenten season by making the changes and consistently incorporating the faith practices necessary to master the identified hindrances to our spiritual health.
Intentionality is imperative in the spiritual life. As we approach Lent, perhaps writing out our intentions and plans for the season by creating reminders on our calendar or smart phone will assist us in staying focused and being consistent in devoting sacred time each day to pray and to meditate on scripture and spiritual writings. My hope is that as we enter the lenten season, we will be acutely aware of the spiritual stumbling blocks in our lives and will greet the glorious Feast of the Resurrection renewed and filled with salvific grace.
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