"Lent comes providentially to reawaken us, to shake us from our lethargy." (Pope Francis) Now it begins! Our 40 day pilgrimage of purification in the spiritual desert where sin is to be stripped away! Pray to the Lord for the grace needed to accomplish what he desires in your life at this time. Desire more intentionally for the grace to confirm your will to God's will for you. Keep your eyes fixed on "the Promised Land": the new life of Easter. Embrace the cross that leads to the resurrection. Don't give up along the way, but persevere. Like the runner who strives for the gold medal, it is worth the effort it takes to reach the end.