Isn’t it wonderful that God created the season of Lent to follow soon after the extravagance of Christmas? How helpful for us who have been overindulgent and are in need of some belt tightening! We can use the weeks of Lent for a time of paying more attention to our prayers than our forbidden foods.

I remember in my younger years that my husband and I would refrain from enjoying a glass of wine with our meals during Lent. The money we saved could go into our Lenten alms envelope. It wasn’t a major sacrifice but simply our way of letting the Lord know that we were trying to discipline our lives as a small offering to Him.

This Jubilee Year of Mercy can be the perfect time to invite a friend or relative to join you sometime for Mass. If you have a Holy Hour, you might offer for them to attend your time of adoration with you. It isn’t necessary to be preachy or reprimand them for their absence, but instead you can gently let that person know that the Pope has suggested this special year for people to feel welcome to return to the practice of their faith. Jesus won’t count the months or years of their time away. He will just smile and welcome them back to His Heart. Perhaps you can remind your friend that we are all sinners and grateful for the wonderful mercy of God.

Of course, praying for those people you know who have been absent from worship is an important part of this invitation. We believe in the power of prayer, and Our Lady is the Queen of Intercessory Prayer. Asking for her help is another way to see the fruits of our prayers. She is always near to Her Son. Lent is a good reason to focus on praying for others.

As much as people often give up certain foods during Lent, one of the best observances is finding an extra ten or fifteen minutes each day to be still, and allow God to speak to us in our hearts. We are living in a rushed world and so Lent is a pause that can refresh our minds, hearts and souls. Through the Holy Spirit, God has much to tell us if we will find a way to listen.

May your Lenten time be fruitful, and prepare you for the glories of Easter.