Not long after the New Year’s resolutions have faded, we Catholics are thinking about our next opportunity to make changes…the 40 days of Lent. Some of us rejoice and say, “Hurrah! A second chance to tackle those goals!” while others of us dread the penitential season and put off thinking about it.
Whichever camp speaks your language, it’s equally true that Lent can often become a Churchy-version of New Year’s resolutions. And, in a way, it is: it’s about renewing our resolve and striving to be the best versions of ourselves.
But unlike New Year’s resolutions, with their emphasis on self-improvement, and how I want to look or feel better about myself, our Lenten commitments are about Him. How is the Lord asking me to move toward Him, toward His heart of mercy and love?
In the 25-ish Lents that I have actually taken seriously, I have come to know that I need (1) others’ accompaniment on the way, (2) Lenten commitments that address the whole person–mind, body and soul, and (3) penances that will conform me to Him. Enter Ascension’s new program “Crux: A Lenten Journey of Surrender” (“crux” is Latin for “cross”).
Beginning Ash Wednesday and continuing all the way to Easter Sunday glory, we can join together in several practices that could make this our most meaningful Lent yet! “Crux” knows the three essential elements of a Lent program that shift our relationship with the Lord into every season of our lives–not just these 40 days.
3 Essential Elements Of Lent
1. We need solidarity with others as we undertake courageous, hard things
Led by the insightful Fr. Columba, CFR, “Crux” provides videos on the Ascension App to encourage us on the journey. The program creates a structure for Lent that each of us can personalize to our own relationship with the Lord.
When the opportunity arose to be an ambassador for “Crux”, I instantly knew I was in and asked my husband, Pat, to join the adventure with me. Ascension has gathered several ambassadors–all of us with unique stories and in different life stages–to underscore just how applicable these Lenten commitments are to us all.
During the week, you can expect to hear progress from the ambassadors, learn about our unique take on the challenges, and how we’re addressing the struggles. We’ll be sharing videos on the Ascension App and on our Instagram.
2. We need disciplines that address our whole person: mind, body and soul
Crux’s four pillars are: daily physical exercise, a dietary fast, daily reading of Scripture, and a nightly Examen. These are the practices that we see evident in the lives of the Saints, and that allow us to feel grounded amidst life’s sufferings and questions.
These four practices will help us all create a solid foundation for our faith lives: no matter what season we are in, we are called to be stewards of our minds and bodies, to prepare our souls for heavenly glory.
3. We need practices that move us toward Him and His vision for our lives
My favorite aspect of “Crux” might be its emphasis on surrender. Even just typing that word makes me cringe because it means that I’m wilfully giving my “yes” to be stretched and grown beyond my human capacity.
To sign up for “Crux” is giving permission to the Lord to call me to new places, my own “cross” of sorts, where He can show me His love and mercy–which will only come if I lay down my ways and my strength. I am asking Him to give me the grace to step out of my comfort zone so He can supplement and provide.
We are made in the image and likeness of a God who demonstrates His love for us on the cross. And He calls us to imitate Him. He doesn’t mince words, He doesn’t leave it open to interpretation. He calls us to deny ourselves, pick up our cross daily, and follow Him. (cf. Lk 9:23)
This is it. This is our opportunity to adopt disciplines that set us up for hearing His call for our lives, allowing us to use this transformative Lenten season for the renewal of our minds, bodies and souls.
Will you accept the challenge to meet Him in “Crux”?
Still not sure where to start with Lent? Check out our Catholic Guide To Lent HERE!
About the Author: Kenna Millea and her husband Pat run a mental health clinic together in Minnesota, martincenterforintegration.com. They also host their weekly podcast, while at the same time parenting seven amazing children! They know what it’s like to deal with family responsibilities while trying to have a fruitful Lent and are excited to share their experiences and insights as they participate in Ascension’s Crux: A Lenten Journey of Surrender.The Crux challenge includes a Surrender Journal and resources for Daily Lenten Meditations.
Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/man-holding-black-rifle-statue-1-xQcAWJukI
