9 things to consider for Lent

1.    Go to confession, daily Mass, and adoration. Just go. Set aside excuses and fears. There is no better way to receive the peace and clarity that only Christ can give than by opening ourselves to regularly receiving the sacraments and adoring Jesus in Eucharistic adoration (or in the presence of the Eucharist in the church if adoration is not available). 

2.    Attend an event at your parish. Stations of the Cross. A class. A fundraising event. If your parish doesn’t hold many events, gather a few friends for a mini retreat to pray the rosary or read scripture together.  

3.    Don’t worry. I know, easier said than done. But consider making a commitment to call out to Jesus every time you start to worry. Put a note on your mirror, by your computer, or over the kitchen sink that says, “Give it to Jesus.” 

4.    Create a place for the liturgical season. Perhaps include a crucifix for Lent, flowers for Easter, and statues and candles during Ordinary Time. The goal is to have a space to remind you that you are a son or daughter of God who is always calling you to communion with him. Have fun with it! 

5.    Pray, fast, and give alms for a particular intention. Whether it's fasting from sweets, volunteering time to a cause, or giving your money to those in need, do that penance for the sake of someone you love. Consider someone who has fallen away from the faith or someone suffering from a serious illness. When your sacrifice becomes difficult, remember that person.  

6.    Ask for help. People of faith generally love to help but hate to ask for it. We don’t want to “burden” others with our troubles. But that mentality is often Satan’s way to keep us isolated and overwhelmed. So be humble and ask someone for help with a meal, childcare, cleaning, or just for a listening ear. 

7.    Visit a jubilee pilgrimage site to receive the jubilee indulgence. Visit www.fargodiocese.org/jubilee for more details. 

8.    Pray about it. Ask God what he is calling you to do this season. Don’t be afraid if he asks for something big and don’t be discouraged if he asks for something seemingly small. He knows your situation and what you need to grow closer to him. 

9. Remember why. Lent is not an endurance test where we grit our teeth and do more for the sake of it. It’s an invitation to renew our love for Jesus and recognize his sacrifice for us.