Lent is upon us.
My first experience of this season of simplifying life, recommitting to spiritual growth, prayer, fasting (both from certain foods and from negative attitudes expressed internally and externally alike) was this time last year as a new Orthodox Christian.
Looking to go deeper this time around. People say, "I'm giving this or that up for Lent," etc. But really, its not what we "give up," but what we open up to receive in terms of love for others, focus on what's really important, and resting from the chaos around us.
I fell in love with this prayer of the season, attributed to St. Ephrem the Syrian, last year.
This year, it is more than mere recitation. It has become a prayer of my heart.
For me, and other seekers of Christ, what could better sum up what we should hope for from Lent, and the life of a believer?
