Closed for Renovations

Sometimes, when we make renovations, we use new and different materials. How about that Bible study in one of the parishes in town? How about that extra daily mass during the week? How about that consciousness examen in Ignatian Spirituality you might want to try? How about fervently praying a few more Acts of Contrition? How about composing a personal act of contrition specific to your own purpose of amendment?

Fortunately, we are not being tempted for 40 days in a desert as Jesus was. However, the devil is very skillful at hitting us in vulnerable areas of our lives. We have to be alert as we are renovating; we watch for weakness and flimsy excuses. We are commanded to love our neighbor but also to love ourselves, and to be forgiving of each other. Shortcuts can be wrong ways and even dead ends.

While Lent is a time of preparation for the glorious celebration of Easter, we do not have to wait to be joyful. We are working on positive improvement. We know God is in the renovation business. He offers the tools to help us.

   Be mindful of your mercy, O Lord,

           and of your steadfast love,

       for they have been from of old.

   Do not remember the sins of my

           youth or my transgressions;

       according to your steadfast love

           remember me,

       for your goodness’ sake, O Lord! (Psalm 25:6-7)

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Scripture passages are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Catholic Edition, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Sharon Krause is a RENEW volunteer whose writing has appeared in several resources for small-group faith sharing. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother residing in Manchester, Connecticut. Over the years, she has served in many parish ministries.