Ash Wednesday ushers in another Lenten season for all of
us. No matter what we decide to do as a Lenten practice, just stopping to think
about the possibilities gives us a chance to examine our way of living the
Christian life. Are we at one with those who suffer hunger? Do we give
ourselves the chance to be silent and listen to our God in prayer? Do we do
works of charity for others?
In the Holy Rule, Chapter 49, St. Benedict tells us that
while “there is no doubt that monastic life should always have a Lenten
character about it, there are not many who today have the strength for that.”
In some ways it’s encouraging to know that the monks of the 5th
century were as weak as those of us in the 21st century. The human
condition hasn’t changed all that much. We don’t have the corner on selfishness
and other faults. 
St. Benedict further encourages each of us to take on
some extra prayers, fasting and good works, to improve our Christian life. The
readings for Ash Wednesday do the same, especially emphasizing keeping our
resolutions to ourselves or at least not making a spectacle of our good works
and fasting.
There are so many good choices. It’s hard to know what to
choose for a Lenten resolution, but that’s no excuse not to make a choice,
though. My mother who’s 91 years old does not eat dessert during Lent. She a
real witness to me because she is totally committed and steadfast in that
resolution. I can only hope to do as well when I finally decide.
For me, one of the blessings of the Christian community
is knowing that others are committing to a special practice and making that
effort to strengthen their spiritual lives at the same time as I. I count on
that moral support and offer mine to all of you in your Lenten journeys.
A blessed Lent to all of us. Sr. Nancy Kordenbrock, OSB
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