When Lent Becomes Personal

Part of the Lenten Journey series

 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and dry them with the towel around his waist. – John 13:5

It’s been a pretty pathetic Lent, or so I thought until about 10 AM on Tuesday morning.

It was then that I got The Call.

As I write this, I don’t know what the outcome of The Call will be. What will that test we worried about show? Will there be a new health challenge with a family member who’s had a fair share of them lately?

I’ve been reflecting about how this one call has changed my entire Lent.

Those reflections have led me back to how Gethsemane probably changed a few people’s perceptions of the Passover, too.

From the time I received that call on Tuesday morning, Lent changed for me. Holy Week, which I hadn’t even fully considered yet, became, suddenly, a time that would draw me closer to Jesus in his suffering and Passion.

What was it like to know what was coming, to want it not to happen, but to accept it anyway?

Lent becomes personal for me, most years, around Holy Thursday, when I find myself humbled and looking Jesus in the face.

This year is different already, and I’m trying to hold on and keep Jesus’ face in sight. He’s bowing his head, praying.

Sounds like a good approach to the unknown ahead.

Lord, hold us close as we face the insurmountable hurdle of Calvary. Let us feel the joy of Easter morning even though we’re struggling with the grief of Good Friday. Lead us into your arms, Lord, and help us to do your will. Amen.

Image source: MorgueFile

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Sarah Reinhard is online at SnoringScholar.com and is the author of the recently-released Catholic Family Fun: A Guide for the Adventurous, Overwhelmed, Creative, or Clueless.