Making Final Days of Lent Practical or Intentional

How many times have we fallen since Ash Wednesday? Did we give up? Have we kept going? These are the questions we have to ponder as we reflect on our Lenten journey, as Holy Week is only a week away.

Let’s just say that it’s not too late. Rather, it’s good to be late to the party. All that is required is to be intentional or practical. Here are some suggestions.

Spiritual Practices

How’s the prayer life going? In these final days, consider praying a rosary for a special intention, Liturgy of the Hours (morning and evening), silent meditation (15-20 minutes reflecting on the gospel or daily readings), or confession. Remember that confessions will be offered for an extended time at parishes the Saturday before Holy Week and before Good Friday services.

Acts of Self-Denial

Believe it or not, a wild card pillar for Lent is self-mortification. It’s an act to deny ourselves and be recognized by God when we give up earthly desires and possessions. Think of being in the Garden of Gethsemane with Jesus and praying until it hurts. Perhaps we get distracted easily from screen time like social media, and we need to fully remove, if not limit, to focus spiritually.  God could be tugging you to eat simple foods and cut out snacks or sweets while giving up something meaningful.

Works of Mercy

Do acts of service for others. Consider giving a cause or parish some extra money. Dedicate time to helping your parish or local community. Send encouraging notes or letters to someone each day.

Scripture and Reflection

Sometimes, God speaks to us through his word when we’re struggling. The readings leading up to Jesus’ passion can be great ways to reflect and write down how he speaks to you. A spiritual reading from saints or world-renowned biblical scholars can steer our focus on the Paschal Mystery.

Community and Accountability

We are all looking to strive for greatness. Maybe it’s time to reach out to someone who is on the same journey as you. Who has a similar Lenten practice as you? Consider a small sacrifice daily as we journey closer to Easter.

Personal Intentions

In these last days of Lent, one should have a clear, meaningful intention when making a sacrifice. Some examples can be the conversion of those involved with abortion, a family member who fell away from the faith, or one’s vocation.

Write down the next few days three things that you’re grateful for with a deeper sense of gratitude.

Be intentionally silent during these next few days. In that silence, turn off the music, podcasts, and meaningless conversations to accommodate God’s voice.

Want to finish Lent strong with a sense of purpose? Pick two things from the doable list. Those that will have your full attention. When it’s all set and done, we will experience the transformative joy of Easter.