It is easy for us to get complacent about things. The more years we spend on this earth, the more likely we are to take things for granted and miss potential opportunities for further growth. The liturgical seasons in the Church are one example of where it can be easy to get complacent. We can get to Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent and we will be able to pretty much guess what the majority of the answers will be to the question – “so, what are you giving up for Lent this year?” … chocolate, alcohol, takeaways etc.
There’s obviously nothing wrong with someone choosing to adjust their habits when it comes to such things and using the season of Lent to commit to those adjustments, but often choosing what to give up can signal the end of our reflection on this season.
It seems that the 40 days can simply become a battle to prove to God how strong I am and what my willpower and stamina are capable of meeting. As we grow in our faith, we are challenged to consider going a little deeper into what the season is asking of us.
If we look a little closer, Lent isn’t about us proving to God what we are able to give up, but rather accepting instead what God wants to give us.
So, instead of choosing something classic to give up, how about we go a little further in our reflection?
These questions and ideas come from an article from the online ministry of Creighton University.
You may like to read the full article here.
this season isn’t about us proving to God what we are able to give up, but rather accepting instead what God wants to give us.
Resources from Caritas Aotearoa
Caritas Aotearoa has a huge range of amazing resources available to help you enter into this season of Lent. We’ve showcased some of our top picks in the drop down menu below. You can also access all resources on Caritas Aotearoa’s Website.
Check out some of our top picks from the wide range of resources
Some music for the season
We’ve curated a Spotify playlist with a few songs that led us into lenten reflection.
Have a listen by clicking here.
Looking for physical resources?
Wanting to dive into Lent with something physically in your hands? Pleroma Christian Supplies has a great range of resources you can order online, or pop into their store in Otane, Central Hawkes Bay.
Beginning of Lent 2023
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