We are entering the Season of Lent 2025. One of my most favourite things I love is going to the church I grew up in, with my Dadsy on Ash Wednesday. It is such a meaningful start to the 40 day walk to Holy Week. Lent is a very intentional, thoughtful and prayerful time of year for me. Each Lent journey has brought me closer to Jesus. It is a lovely time to appreciate and reflect on the greatest gift He gave us all – FORGIVENESS
One of my focal points this Lent is to give from a place of poverty, whether that is the gift of love, forgiveness, kindness, mercy, understanding, patience, time, effort or a monetary gift. Being thoughtful to give when it is the hardest thing to do, and we really don’t feel like doing it. Many times the ways of the world or our culture is giving to get something in return. Giving with an expectation. We have been socialized to have a ‘me first’ or ‘what’s in it for me’ attitude. By self-forgetting we can give from that place of poverty. By focusing on aspects of our lives that we can enhance our Christ like qualities and be as giving and forgiving as Christ was towards us, then we can bring more light into our lives and into the lives of others.
Each and every year that I make my Lent intentions and start my own contemplative journey to Holy Week I am reminded of the verse that connects faith with my actions and care for others as I walk the narrow path with God:
Micah 6:8 – to act justly, love mercy and walk humble with God.
Anita Stettner 