Today is the Day

Written by G-pa

“For he says: ‘At the acceptable time I have listened to you, and helped you on the day of salvation.’ Behold, now is the acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2Cor 6:2)

The readings for Ash Wednesday relay a clear message for the season of Lent: repent now! In the first reading, we hear the prophet Joel urging us: “Yet even now, says the Lord, return to me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning” (Joel 2:12). God is asking His people to return to Him, and to do it now. There is a real sense of urgency about it. He wants us to know that through fasting and penance, we can recognize how we have drifted off course and turn again toward the Lord knowing that, “he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love “ (Joel 2:13).

I used to think of Lent as a rather depressing time in the liturgical year, with its fasting and abstaining from meat on Fridays and the Church’s emphasis on repentance from sin. As I got older, I realized that doing these things and knowing that I am opening myself to God’s mercy and love, make Lent a very positive experience. This became especially clear to me several years ago when Pope Francis declared a Jubilee Year of Mercy which emphasized the works of mercy, both spiritual and corporal, that anyone can do anytime. Anything that makes us more open to His love and encourages us to share His mercy and His love with those around us, will make this Lent a very positive season.

Rather than looking for something to give up for Lent, I want to look at the areas in my life that I need to build up in order to strengthen my walk with the Lord. I know I could spend more time in personal prayer, thanking God for all He has done for me. I should get to Confession more often. Hearing the words of absolution is one of the most comforting and life-changing experiences I can have. As for Scripture reading, there is no such thing as too much. Answering the call to service in my parish, my community, and my family, is another way to participate in Lent. All these things help me to understand my relationship with God and what kind of man He is calling me to be.

So then, today is the day to get started, “the acceptable time.” God is waiting to pour out His kindness, grace, and mercy on everyone who turns, or returns, to Him. Let’s not keep Him waiting. “Behold, now is the day of salvation.”