The season of Lent provides an opportunity for the people of God to prepare themselves for the joy that comes with Easter. Like soldiers worn out by raging battle, the season of Lent is an opportunity for us to do the three ‘R’s’, that is, retreat, re-examine, and renew our inner selves so as to prepare adequately for the joy that comes from the victory of Easter.
We may have been battered by sin, tossed around by the popular culture of our time, humiliated by the harsh economic realities, seduced by the inordinate greed for material things, harassed by the insecurity in our land. Perhaps as a result of this, we are on the verge of giving up on God’s readiness to take control. Rather, let us draw closer to Jesus as He wishes to draw closer to us and renew our confidence in His mercy and compassion. Our reflection on the suffering and death of Christ in a special way puts us in the mood for sorrow and repentance for our sins and our sinfulness. Let us strive to be more aware of the presence of God within the days that mark Lent so as to be freed from the bondage of sin to enjoy the glorious liberty of children of God.
The Lenten journey is uniquely marked by the three traditional practices of prayer, fasting and alms giving. Through prayer, people make room in their hearts as they communicate with God. My dear friends, Jesus put together some facts when he gave us the prayer popularly called “the Lord’s Prayer.” In giving this prayer, Jesus gives us a lesson on how to pray.
At prayer, the initial focus should be on God – His Hallowed name, the coming of His kingdom, and will. It is only after focusing on God that Jesus directs us to make our petition for our needs. The Lord’s Prayer prompts us to pray for our most basic needs, including both material and spiritual sustenance, forgiveness of our sins, and deliverance from the trials that test our fidelity to God.
• Most Rev. (Dr.) Alfred Adewale Martins is the Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Lagos.
