The Columbans have released a Lenten resource for individuals, parishes or schools, focusing on the readings for the five Sundays of Lent which keep reminding us of our amazing calling in Christ Jesus.
The prologue to the resources says the readings speak of God actively present in creation and every human being, of life renewed and being transformed.
“Those baptised into Christ Jesus proclaim this truth. We are not aimless wanderers in this world; we are linked to the ongoing work God began at the dawn of creation. God is near, embracing each stage of our human journey. God feels our limitations and trials, sustaining each of us in our human odyssey with God,” it says.
“Making choices is a key phrase during Lent. It is a time when we choose to turn back to the way to God. God works in every culture to create peace in individual hearts and within the human family. Christ Jesus shows the way. It is up to us to unite with our brother Jesus by living out our baptismal calling. It is our choice to embrace the human journey.”
The prologue says that during Lent, the focus is often on ‘giving up things’.
“This can be misleading. Lent is the season to remember that God empowers us daily to grow fully into the dream God has for us. We are also empowered in the self-giving love of Christ Jesus to move beyond self-absorption and help others grow,” he says.
“There is a Christian tradition of fasting during Lent. While fasting is not an end in itself, it reminds us of our need and that God is the Giver. God is interested in our individual journeys and the journey of all humanity. God has cared for every atom and creature since time began, and we have our own particular place in that evolving human odyssey.
“There is also a Christian tradition of giving to the less fortunate during Lent. Organised Lenten programs like Caritas mirror the kindness of God. Such programs help our self-reflection and evaluation of the way we live and challenge our lifestyle choices.”
The Gospel of Mathew tells us to put on a happy face when we fast or care for the poor (Mt 6:16-18). The way we act is important. Jesus brought joy to those he helped – he gave new meaning to the Samaritan woman at the well; he spent time with the Centurion worried about the health of his servant, the Resource says.
“Water is a powerful Lenten symbol of new life. Baptism is the Christian symbol of Easter re-birth in Christ Jesus. Caring for the Murray Darling River Basin (MDB) is a practical way of honouring God’s gift of water in Australia. An ABC radio series aired from 3rd to 6th of Jan 2022 explored the historical use of the MDB, water allocations and trading, and its wetlands. The MDB is twice the size of France and supplies 60 per cent of the nation’s food and fibre. The Fitzroy and Burdekin rivers, the Eyre Basin, and coastal rivers are the focus of action by local Landcare groups. They know the impacts of increasingly rapid climate change. They act to change their habits to show more respect and care for waterways. In 2022, such commitments can be a way for individuals and communities to turn back to God.”
To access the Lenten Resource, head to the Columbans’ website.