Lent is clearly a season of penance and preparation. For many it is the highlight of the liturgical year as it invites us to reflect upon ourselves, our relationship with the Church and with the world. While the history of Lent is complex, three things remain at the forefront of any Lenten experience. Those three things are to 1) pray, 2) fast and 3) give alms. No Lent is complete without these three practices as they represent the foundation of the Lenten tradition. With that in mind let us look in depth at the three tasks. This week’s task: prayer. Prayer in the context of Lent takes on a much different character. The church itself provides the clue in Psalm 51. “Have mercy on me, God, in accord with your merciful love; in your abundant compassion blot out my transgressions. Thoroughly wash away my guilt; and from my sin cleanse me.” The psalm is the common psalm for the Lenten season and is heard through out the season. Psalm 51 invites us to spend time with God and be bathed in God’s mercy. But to experience mercy we must also know that we are sinners in need of mercy. Thus, the psalm gives us the “whole picture” that we need. Prayer during Lent can take on many forms. Coming to daily Mass is a common experience. But also making time in adoration can be useful. Praying the Divine Office during Lent is another possibility. Daily rosaries during times of travel combine the good use of time with being in the presence of God. However, you wish to make prayer part of your Lenten experience is up to you. But the gospel for Ash Wednesday speaks to us in this context.
“But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.” --Matt. 6
Next week: Fasting