In the days preceding Ash Wednesday, we prudently prepare and devoutly design to accomplish x, y and z in the hopes of atoning for sin, accompanying Our Lord in His Passion and budding forth as a better version of ourselves as children of God. Holy Mother Church’s somber call for necessary prayer, penance and almsgiving is answered with enthusiastic resolution.

Before those ashes can smudge off our brows, we are reminded that our human nature remains weak. Our usual daily crosses are no less daily… or weighty. And life does not cease to be ‘lifey’ in lieu of the Lenten season. Suddenly, x, y and z are a bit more of a dread than our initial confidence perceived. Perhaps these last few weeks have slowly donned the image of dismal and discouraging?

Take heart! For today our souls are refreshed; our wills fortified by the call of Isaias (66:10,11): “Rejoice, O Jerusalem: and come together all you that love her: rejoice with joy, you that have been in sorrow: that you may exult, and be filled from the breasts of your consolation.” The triumphant glory of the Resurrection is the light now visible at the end of this 40-day tunnel, providing the opportunity and means for our penitential suffering to reclaim the image of hope and joy.

Let us courageously continue to follow Our Redeemer to Calvary, generously shouldering our portion of His cross of salvation. Suffering with Him and sustained by Him… and still marveling with gratitude at the little things with which He blesses us along the way.