A Prayer For Lent

Beloved Lord, As we enter this sacred Lenten season, we come to understand once more that these are the days of salvation, and these are indeed the appointed times. We acknowledge that each of us has fallen short, understanding that in various ways we have all displeased Your infinite glory. Sin deprives us of Your life within, as drought causes leaves to wither and robs the land of vitality, leaving it dry and desolate. In our attempts to atone for our past misdeeds, we implore You for assistance, Lord. Grant our endeavors the abundant blessing of Your grace. Help us to recognize increasingly our need for penance and self-denial. Let us discern, in our daily struggles and responsibilities, in the challenges and temptations we face, the finest chances to make amends for our past unfaithfulness. Every day, we are reminded in nature, in the fields and woods, in the skies and streams, of Your limitless generosity toward us. Guide us to understand that You are never surpassed in giving, and that even the smallest act we undertake for You will be rewarded, in overflowing measure. Then we will witness, within ourselves, how the barren can bloom, and the desolate land can yield the fruitful harvest that You always envisioned from its inception. Amen. Today, dear Lord, we joyfully commemorate Your resurrection. We share in Your happiness that You triumphed over death. Surveying the vibrant fields around us, filled with fresh life, we are constantly reminded of You. The seeds we sow may appear lifeless, but with the miraculous blend of rain and sunlight, and the earth's own power, they awaken from their death-like slumber and flourish into lush and beautiful growth. The bare, lifeless trees that endured winter now shine with vibrant green. With these daily echoes of resurrection surrounding us, help us to remember that death is not the conclusion for us, but a new beginning. Let us keep in mind that we will rise again on the last day, ready to dwell with You forever. On that day, there will be no more tears or grief; no suffering or anguish, but joy, love, and happiness with You eternally. With You, we shall celebrate the everlasting Easter. It will be a perpetual spring for us, if we realize now that there is no glory without sacrifice, no Easter without Good Friday. By Your grace, assist us in leading lives of virtue that will earn us this new life in heaven, eternally with You.Amen.