Today, March 5, 2014 we are celebrating Ash Wednesday. It marks the beginning of the Lenten Season - one of the five seasons in the Church Liturgical Calendar. During this Season of Lent we are highly encouraged to undergo a metanoia or complete change of heart like to be willing to amend our sinful ways. This can only be made possible if we avoid things that come between us and God and establish a new covenant with Him. Here are some guidelines to help you have a meaningful and prayerful Lenten Season: 1. Praying - set aside a special time for praying. You may go to the chapel/any quiet place to talk listen to God or you may spend few minutes each day reading biblical passages. 2. Fasting - fasting does not mean only giving up food. It includes different sacrifices we can offer to God like not playing online games for a week, trying no to say unkind words to your classmates and anything that holds you back from God. This will not only strengthen your relationship with God nut also improve your self - discipline. 3. Acts of Charity - charity is not limited only in giving only foods and clothes to those who are in need. We can also practice charity by dedicating time to serve and help others. Helping in doing household chores is a start. Repentance is the main reason Christians commemorate Lent. This you can practice by serving and helping others. 4. Reconciliation - Lenten Season includes improving oneself and being a better individual. When we say improving oneself it includes our bond with the people around us. During this season we try our best to fix damaged relationships with the people we had conflicts with. The best way to start this process of reconciling and improvement is to be cleansed from sins. Go, therefore, to a priest and confess your sins. As the Bible says, God loves a person who has a pure heart. 5. Meditation - This may be the most neglected spiritual practice among the youth today. Reflecting from time to time gives us a moment to talk to God and re - evaluate ourselves with what we have done in the past. This will help us with our decision making in the future. Sample questions that can help us start reflecting are: Do I take time each day to talk to God and listen to Him? What can I do to make myself a better person? What Do You Know About Ash Wednesday Quiz ►► on.beliefnet/ashwedILJO — with Sai Maria and 9 others. Photo: What Do You Know About Ash Wednesday Quiz ►► on.beliefnet/ashwedILJO
Posted on: Wed, 05 Mar 2014 13:02:10 +0000
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