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Many of the Catholic bloggers are writing about Ash Wednesday and Lent and what they are going to do to observe Lent. Don't get me wrong, this is good and mighty edifying, but it seems to me it can be a bit self-conscious, if not indiscreet - too much "all about me" - but that's just my initial reaction. I mention it because reading such things can elicit just that type of thoughtless critique from me, albeit, not intended in an uncharitable way. However, I'm learning it is always better when I turn it back upon myself - admitting that sometimes there may be another underlying evil prompting my 'judgements' (aka, 'opinion') - be it self-opinion or pride, envy, jealousy, resentment, remembrance of wrongs, or just idle speculation, there is often something culpable lurking beneath my unsolicited comments. (Except my really funny ones.)
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As a blogger, I've come to realize I've been 'barking up the wrong tree' as it were. Passing judgement upon others, meddling, sticking my nose in where it doesn't belong.
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This year Ash Wednesday reminds me that the observance of Lent is most deeply about repentance - not so much about what one gives up or does - such actions are an expression of repentance, a devout response, or return to Divine Mercy. For me, repentance is really what Lent is all about, and 'barking up the right tree' - acknowledging and confessing my sins, weeping and mourning at the foot of the Cross. Really and truly repenting - the rest is more or less evidence one truly means to reform. [Mt. 3: 7] And it is between me and God.
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(Yes, even this is self-opinion and pride.)
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" ... As a blogger, I've come to realize I've been 'barking up the wrong tree' as it were. Passing judgement upon others, meddling, sticking my nose in where it doesn't belong ... "
ReplyDeleteWell at last you've come to your senses about that. Let's see if there is a change in the tone of this blog. Actions speak louder than words, my friend.
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Thanks Robert - I hope and pray I keep to my resolve. Unfortunately I've never been a very consistent type - my best intentions often fail me.
ReplyDeleteBe patient with yourself, Terry. But try to remember that God's love and mercy is to be found and is active way beyond your own personal perceptions of what is right and wrong or good and bad. To do that attempts to see things or people in all three dimensions, much more as God sees them.
ReplyDeleteWe all need to strive for a more three dimensional way of seeing things, more as God sees them. Quiet, personal prayer alone is a great help with that.
Best wishes for a good Lent on the road to Easter.
Many thanks Robert - I slipped up this past Sunday but took the post down after a perceptive friend commented on what I wrote. I very much appreciate your prayers. God bless.
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