Growing up as a Catholic I associated lent with fasting or denying pleasure. Giving up something to remind me of my sinful nature. Making that small sacrifice would bring me closer to God.
From a young age I always appreciated the intention of lent but the practice of giving up something never really helped me to build a more intimate relationship with God. However, I believe in the principle of making space for God.
God desires to connect with us, with our whole heart including our imperfections and frailties.
Since I’m a bit of a rebel I decided to come up with another approach for lent. Instead of hiding or denying parts of myself, I aspire to give in to His grace and mercy by acknowledging my sins and frailties.
To give in to the leading of the Holy Spirit with an open heart and a listening ear.
To give in to His wisdom by reading scripture with a fresh mind.
To give in to His unconditional love with praise and worship.
To give in to my holy heritage with utmost respect and admiration.
So for this lenten journey, wherever the Lord may lead me, I aim to give in and not give up.
Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me from your presence
or take your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Then I will teach transgressors your ways,
so that sinners will turn back to you.
Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God,
you who are God my Savior,
and my tongue will sing of your righteousness.
Open my lips, Lord,
and my mouth will declare your praise.
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;
you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.
My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart
you, God, will not despise.Psalm 51:10-17
