From the Deacon's Desk

Lent begins tomorrow. Before the season begins, it is a good time to reflect on our level of intentionality.

Intentionality is at the very core of our faith. Growing in our faith requires that we show commitment; our faith cannot be an afterthought or something we’ll “get around to some time.” We need to be intentional about the time, effort, and commitment we put into it.

Looking ahead, isn’t Lent simply an annual reminder of our need to be intentional in our faith? Why the emphasis on prayer, fasting, and almsgiving? Because all three of these components of Lent are structured activities. They provide order; they are intentional.

Rather than “giving something up” for Lent, we should instead focus on intentionality – commit to praying at a certain time each day, going to one extra Mass per week, spending an hour in Adoration each week, donating our morning coffee (or Diet Coke) money to a worthy charity, praying the Rosary once or twice per week, talking to others about our experience of Jesus at least once per day, or any number of other worthwhile efforts.

To exhibit intentionality and achieve success in growing our faith life, we must plan, commit, and follow through.