Feb
25
2009
By Anonymous (not verified)
Readings: Joel 2:12-18; 2 Cor 5:20-6:2; Mt 6:1-6, 16-18
... behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Cor 6:2
An article in a leading magazine detailed the extensive preparation to which an athlete committed himself for the Olympics. For four years, this athlete devoted himself to a rigorous regime of nutrition and exercise. Nothing deterred him from his goal: to be a world champion. This athlete traded four years of his life for a race that would last only minutes. He was able to keep his focus set on the long-term, while he sacrificed and worked hard in the days that led up to his race for the gold medal.
Today begins a significant season in the Church Calendar. As you approach the starting line of the Lenten season, remind yourself that the next 40 days are not a sprint, but a spiritual race that is to be run daily. Take time to prayerfully reflect on the areas of your life that are spiritually out of shape. Consider praying with your spouse or family, or attending daily Mass. Following the daily Scripture readings and meditations in this devotional will help you stay on course. What else can you do to deepen your relationship with Jesus?
The athlete could have easily put off his hard work because the race was four years away. This type of procrastination can happen to us spiritually as well. Take advantage of this rich Church season, which calls us to new levels of sacrifice, charity, and holiness. Don't delay in committing to daily spiritual practices that will strengthen you in virtue and love of the Lord. Run the good race and set your eyes on the glory and joy to be found on Easter Sunday.
Lord Jesus, bless me with a renewed passion and discipline to grow closer to You. May this season of Lent be filled with daily acts of worship and love. Amen.
... behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Cor 6:2
An article in a leading magazine detailed the extensive preparation to which an athlete committed himself for the Olympics. For four years, this athlete devoted himself to a rigorous regime of nutrition and exercise. Nothing deterred him from his goal: to be a world champion. This athlete traded four years of his life for a race that would last only minutes. He was able to keep his focus set on the long-term, while he sacrificed and worked hard in the days that led up to his race for the gold medal.
Today begins a significant season in the Church Calendar. As you approach the starting line of the Lenten season, remind yourself that the next 40 days are not a sprint, but a spiritual race that is to be run daily. Take time to prayerfully reflect on the areas of your life that are spiritually out of shape. Consider praying with your spouse or family, or attending daily Mass. Following the daily Scripture readings and meditations in this devotional will help you stay on course. What else can you do to deepen your relationship with Jesus?
The athlete could have easily put off his hard work because the race was four years away. This type of procrastination can happen to us spiritually as well. Take advantage of this rich Church season, which calls us to new levels of sacrifice, charity, and holiness. Don't delay in committing to daily spiritual practices that will strengthen you in virtue and love of the Lord. Run the good race and set your eyes on the glory and joy to be found on Easter Sunday.
Lord Jesus, bless me with a renewed passion and discipline to grow closer to You. May this season of Lent be filled with daily acts of worship and love. Amen.
mmwj