Resisting Temptation

"Lord, help us to resist temptation by our Lenten works of charity and penance. By this sacrifice may we be prepared to celebrate the death and resurrection of Christ our Savior and be cleansed from sin and renewed in spirit." Prayer in the season of Lent

The above prayer teaches that the Lenten works of alms-giving, prayer and fasting when done in the right spirit in the season of grace help us to resist temptation. Every sacrifice of the Mass cleanses us of venial sins and renews our spirit.

Is there a danger that after many years of Lenten observance one may have no new works to perform? One may have no new initiatives to add to fasting, prayer or alms-giving. But one still has many temptations to resist. One has many imperfections to work on. Every season of Lent should have a new agenda. Since this is an appointed time for grace and favor and one should be resolved to make the most of the period.