How appropriate we start off Ash Wednesday with the character trait of reverence Lent is beginning and it is a journey of prayer, almsgiving and fasting. As we begin this Lenten journey toward Easter morning, let’s spend these next 40 days in reverence for God. Less of me, more of you, Lord. There’s no better way to live life to the fullest than by showing reverence for God.
How do we do that? The definition of reverence is an awesome fear, a deep respect and honor for something or someone. This is what we give to God and life.
All life is sacred. –“From the womb to the tomb.” God breathes life. We are all created to love God and others. We were created to give glory, honor and praise to Him who died for our sins. That, my friends, is reverence.
Today, on Ash Wednesday, we receive ashes and we proclaim an ‘Amen’ when the sign of the Cross is made on our foreheads at the words of “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.” What does that mean exactly, to be faithful to the Gospel?
It means standing up for truth and life, for what you believe in, having reverence for the Almighty God.
This Lent I’m spending my 40 days in prayer with St. Teresa of Calcutta in a book called, I Thirst. It caught my attention because, well, who doesn’t love Mother Teresa? But also because the title just hit me like a ton of bricks. I Thirst. I don’t know about you, but I’m thirsting for Jesus. This year and last was very trying and I’m just thirsty. I need a drink and a refreshing in my spirit. How about you?
St. Teresa started the Missionaries of Charity order of sisters. There is a religious order of priests as well and they wrote a beautiful prayer called I Thirst for You. It is written as if Jesus were talking and thirsting for you. It’s very moving.
Do you have plans for the next 40 days? Are you tired and worn down after all the drama and isolation of last year? Do you need a refreshing? Spend time in prayer. Give and be generous to those in need. Fast and abstain from meat on Fridays.
Let’s take the next 40 days and thirst for reverence for God and the life He has given us. Have reverence for life at all stages. May we have reverence to be faithful to the Gospel. My prayers are with all of you.
Like any other character trait, practice it. Schedule this one not just for 21 days but for a lifetime. You will be blessed my friends.
God bless.–Barb
My confirmation name is Theresa. What a special person and I picked her because of what she stands for. Another great message Barb.
Thank you.
Enjoying your writings. Thank you Barb
Thank you so much!