For Lent Give Up Sin

The first full week of Lent is underway. It was mere days ago that we were reflecting on what our sacrifice for Lent and our time in the spiritual desert would lead us to Easter. While it is a great idea to make the small sacrifices like chocolate, TV, or social media, maybe God would want us to go deeper.

Years ago, I attended Ash Wednesday Mass, or was it Mass when Lent began (I vaguely remember the exact day), and the priest shared a story that will resonate forever. When asked by a reporter what he plans to give up for Lent, the priest’s answer was “sin”.

I was blown away by his bold response. Then, I pondered what he said and thought, “That's what every Christian must strive to give up every Lent”.

Fulton Sheen once said, “Far better it is for you to say: ‘I am a sinner,' Satan wants us to sin, but he wants us to think that it is no big deal. Yet, we must humbly admit that we are all sinners. We can’t admit that we are sinners without invoking God’s help.

Sheen offered a difference between sinner and saint by saying, “The only difference between a sinner and a saint is found in their attitude toward their sins - the one persisting in them; the other weeping bitterly.”

If we want to become saints, then the time to give up our sinful habits is now. Thankfully, we have the sacraments to frequent as long as we live, especially the sacrament of reconciliation. Some say or often chastise Catholics, all because we don’t need to confess our sins, or “why go to confession?” I find them to be pet peeves. Some of our brothers and sisters are spiritually timid to seek God’s mercy time and time again.

The confessional is the place to put to death sin, and the moment we walk out is the time to strive to be a better version of ourselves. Fr. Mike Schmitz calls the confessional a place for victory. I am so thankful to make use of the sacrament of mercy. God doesn't care what I do. He wants to transfigure my life to emulate all he does to bring God's kingdom on earth. 

As we embark on the first week of Lent, let’s make an effort to go to confession. In that confessional, God awaits to take on the sins of the world, and witness you walk out of there transformed by his infinite mercy.

Regardless of how long it has been, God awaits us in that place of victory. Don't forget that giving up sin is a practice for everyday life. Just keep pushing and never give up.