Lent is the season of penance, but how can we approach it in a way that’s meaningful to modern life?
In this episode of “The Catholic Gentleman,” John Heinen, Sam Guzman, and Devin Schadt dive into three practices that promise not just to change our Lent but to transform us spiritually too!
1) Embrace Incremental Growth
Starting small can lead to big changes. This Lent, Heinen says to consider adopting a gradual approach to fasting, prayer, and almsgiving because “we have to start small in order to progress successfully in God’s grace.”
By slowly integrating spiritual disciplines into our daily routines, we can avoid the overwhelm and find joy in our journey toward Easter.
2) Cultivate Humility With Reflection
Humility is the cornerstone of a transformative Lent.
It’s about recognizing our limitations and opening our hearts to God’s grace. Schadt emphasizes the importance of humility, saying, “Lent is a perfect time for self-knowledge… it begins with knowing Christ and recognizing I’m not like you, Christ, but I want to be like you.”
Through humility, we can truly grow closer to God and understand our place in His plan.
“The road to humility is paved with the sharp stones of humiliations,” he says.
3) Give Love and Forgiveness
Lent isn’t just about giving up; it’s about giving forth. Guzman challenges you to extend acts of kindness, forgiveness, and generosity.
Whether it’s forgiving someone who has wronged you or helping those in need, these acts of love reflect Christ’s teachings and allow us to experience the fullness of His grace.
“Forgiveness is a massive act of generosity and giving, it shines forth radiating the Life of Christ,” Guzman says.
The gentlemen believe Lent isn’t about enduring a season of deprivation but embracing a period of profound personal and spiritual growth.
Through incremental growth, humility, and giving, we can experience a Lent that not only prepares us for Easter but transforms our entire lives!
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