C is for Confession; we’re talking hers and his experiences. What’s the difference? Nothing that really matters. We both went, confessed, and were forgiven. We both received the graces given through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. While our experiences were wildly different, at the end of the day, they are the same. We examined our consciences, made good confessions, and received absolution from our sins. We were washed clean by a shower of grace by God’s mercy.
Lent, a season particularly focused on renewal and conversion, begins today. Flip through the pages of most current home and garden magazines and you will easily find articles with tips for spring-cleaning. I recently found an article titled, “Spring Clean Your Finances.” The first paragraph read, “Spring is the season of renewal — the time to … [Read more…]
Advent Week 2 Reflection: Occupy the Confessional We’re going to see Jesus!” my then two-year old daughter joyfully proclaimed as we entered the church parking lot on the morning of the first Sunday in Advent. My husband Joel and I, a little surprised yet proud of her recognition, chuckled and agreed, “Yes, we ARE going … [Read more…]
The National Catholic Register’s 2011 Advent Guides I enjoy receiving our printed copy of the National Catholic Register this time of the year for the clip out, photocopy, and pass-on Advent guides. Previous years’ clip-outs still remain in my prayer journal, and I refer to them often (e.g., the How (and Why) of Daily Prayer and Praying the … [Read more…]
September 12, 2010: 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time The daily Mass readings this past week urged us to conduct our affairs in a manner pleasing to God. In 1 Corinthians, St. Paul urged us to purge immorality from our lives (Mon.), deal justly with one another (Tue.), refrain from idolatry (Thu.), exercise discipline (Fri.), and … [Read more…]