Today’s lectionary readings

“Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.” – Psalm 79

I was recently reminded by one of my children that New Year’s Eve is one of her favorite holidays. When I asked her why, she said it’s because it’s a time to start over, a clean slate, a re-do for the things that didn’t quite work out in the past year.

That conversation made me realize how similarly I think about Lent.

I love the idea of re-directing my course, starting over, deepening my spiritual journey, and even trying something new. And yet, if I’m honest, Lent can feel hard for me, because I am a perfectionist.

If there are dishes in the sink, my mind immediately jumps to the kitchen needs cleaning. I notice when something is out of place. I like schedules. I like plans. So, when Lent comes, I feel the need to have a plan… and it never seems like enough.

So, what can I do?

I’m a sinner.

One of the funniest moments I’ve had in the confessional was when my confessor joyfully greeted me with, “Hello, sinner.” I laughed, because it was true. And that is precisely why I was there.

I am deeply grateful for the prayer from Psalm 79: “Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.” Whew. I don’t think I could withstand that kind of dealing.

Instead, I can let this psalm rest with me and allow it to re-frame how I approach Lent. A few truths to remember:

1. Hebrews 13:5 assures us that the Lord never leaves us. He is always already there. Always. Already. There.
2. Romans 8 reminds us that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Nothing.
3. Trust God. Trust is powerful.

The point is this: God is not looking to accuse me, that is the lie of another. God is inviting me to love Him in return. He invites me to choose again: to start over, to re-direct my course, to grow, and to try something new in my walk with Him.

And maybe that’s what Lent truly is.

So perhaps, at the end of this year’s Lent, it can feel like my own New Year’s Eve celebration, a heart renewed, not by perfection, but by grace.

---

Julie Naporano is vice president of development and communications from Catholic Social Services, Columbus, OH. Grounded in her Catholic faith and inspired by the mission of the Church, Julie hopes her life reflects her faith more clearly than her words ever could. She approaches her work with a deep respect for the dignity of each person, recognizing service as both a professional and spiritual calling.