The Discipline of Lent

“Lord, protect us in our struggle against evil. As we begin the Discipline of Lent, make this season holy by our self-denial …..”

I recorded the above prayer for the Mass of Ash Wednesday 1999 at the beginning of Lent. I confided to my journal the reflection below:

“Lent is the season to intensify the struggle against evil in our lives with the hope of victory. It is a very acceptable time for spiritual warfare. I recall Lent 88. It was the time I won freedom from tobacco. Lent 99 will be marked by freedom from selfishness.

Self-denial helps us to win victory over ourselves.