Prayer: A Prayer as we Begin Lent

Loving Jesus,

As we in your church continue to come into our fullness according to the promptings of your Spirit following Vatican II, help us to begin Lent with a sense that we are your beloved ones. We are fully aware that we often do not measure up to your expectations, and because of your goodness, we exist because of your mercy. Help us to move past our fixation with sinfulness so we can reside in your mercy, and to know that your mercy calls us to enter into the chaos of the lives of others. Though it is Lent, we know that you are Risen and live among and within us, and your Resurrection is to be our sign of joy. Deepen our friendship with you this young season so that we may be your companions in God's reign, and that we may find delight in the redemptive work you have done for us. Help us to be better friends. We do it all for God's glory. Amen

Fr. John Predmore, S.J.