We all know that Lent is the perfect time for reconciliation with God and with others.

We should take time to apologize if there is someone in need of those words, and Lent is also the perfect season to pray for an increase in faith for ourselves.

The stronger our faith becomes, the more we can be witnesses to those around us who are struggling to believe.

Faith is a gift. If you have it, rejoice because so many people today are distracted and have forgotten the value of knowing and loving God in their daily lives.

Mother Angelica, the founder of EWTN Catholic Radio and Television once spoke about becoming saints. Her quote is: “We can become saints, not because of what we are but because of what He is and what He can make of us. Love is the one thing necessary”

This season of Lent is a good time for self-examination. It is not just about the sacrifice of special foods, which some people find comforting, but it is about growing closer to our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus.

If we can take some extra time to ponder, as Our Lady taught us to do, and reflect on the blessings of our lives, and the source of those blessings, we can enjoy a healthy Lenten experience. Easter will be all the more precious because we have learned that the crosses of our lives are so much lighter with Jesus’ assistance.

Mother Angelica died in 2016, and left a legacy of love and hope through her bold belief in listening to God’s will in her life and acting upon it.

Perhaps these words of hers could help us live our time of Lenten reflection in a fruitful way: “Let Him be your constant companion throughout the day, speaking to Him s you would to a friend.”

God loves us more than we can imagine, and is calling us to come closer to Him!