Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Over the years, I’ve tried to be somewhat health conscious. It’s not always easy, and I’m far from perfect in it, but maintaining good physical health is critical to be quality and quantity of life. In the last six months, I’ve redoubled my efforts, what with my odometer hitting the 40s and the issues that my dad has recently experienced, it’s been on the forefront of my mind to try and take care of my body. And so, things like watching my diet more, wearing a watch with a pedometer, and just trying to be more active, have all helped me make strides in being healthier. However, while being physically fit is important, it’s not the only aspect of health to consider.
Later this week, the Church offers to us something as both a check and guide to our spiritual health. It’s hard to believe in some ways that Ash Wednesday is already upon us, and yet, here we are. Over the years, I’ve expressed a lack of enthusiasm for the season of Lent and its penitential nature. However, there’s more to Lent than just giving up cookies, even if that’s the first thought that jumps to my mind.
Lent proposes to us a threefold experience that is a microcosm of the whole spiritual life. Within the principles of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving; there is a blueprint by which we might look at our lives of faith and our spiritual health. When you think about your current prayer life, how is it going? When you consider the things and stuff within your life, is there anything in which you overindulge? When you look at the needs of those around you, are you providing adequate help and support to them? In some ways, these are simple questions. And yet, they also offer a chance to evaluate how we’re doing in living our faith.
Wherever you might be in your spiritual journey, it’s ok. For those that feel like they need a lot of work spiritually, perhaps this Lent is a good chance to go ahead and make some strides. For those that have already experienced great growth in their experience and relationship with the Lord, there’s always more to discover. At the end of the day, there’s something for everyone in the season of Lent and in the spiritual life. It’s my sincere hope for both myself and for our parish community, that we might have a good and spiritually enriching Lenten season. May God’s grace be at work in all of us, allowing us to grow in our spiritual health and in our closeness to the Lord.
Peace and Goodness,
Fr. Dan
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