The 40-day journey

If you do well, you can hold up your head; but if not, sin is a demon lurking at the door: his urge is toward you, yet you can be his master. (Gn 4:7)

It's almost time for our 40-day journey into the desert- Lent starts on Wednesday. If you're dreading this time of fasting, prayer and almsgiving... don't. This time is a gift; this time is for spiritual growth, for renewal, for recharging and drawing strength to continue life's journey. It's not a lonely time, since Jesus has gone before you. He is already there- He knows this path; knows the challenges and temptations. He knows the hunger; knows we'll start with good intentions, then grow weary and want to give up. He knows the devil is waiting in the wings, eager to tempt, to entice, to confuse; itching to deceive. The devil will appeal to our desire to have our physical needs met- will derail our efforts towards self-denial; will tantalize with worldly attractions- power, wealth, ambition, prestige; will attempt to create doubt in our minds concerning God's goodness, faithfulness, love and concern for each of us. But, do not fear! Jesus is there, waiting to meet us; willing to assuage every longing of our heart.

Let's prayerfully ask God to reveal what is keeping us from a closer walk with Him this Lent. Let's ask for the grace to abandon our attachment to the things we've given higher priority than God, so that we can reach for God and allow Him to be Lord of our lives.

Sin will always be lurking at the door... Let's hold up our heads and reach for God's hand with the faith, trust and obedience of a dearly-loved child of God.