Repent and Rejoice!

Repent and Rejoice!

Are we opening our hearts to the Holy Spirit who will use us to do the Lord’s work? Are we living in such a way that others will see Christ’s light and choose to follow as well? The opportunity to live in this manner is a blessing like no other. And while the word ‘REPENT’ may seem to be full of blame and shame, it too is an opportunity to be blessed. I know many people – Catholic and non – who, for one reason or another, do not like Confession. We see the attitude of, “why do I need to confess to a priest when I can go right to the source?” I’m quite familiar with this attitude because I used to be one who held it.

Through God’s grace, I have been called to conversion. I have been led to live my life more fully in Christ as a renewed Catholic. In this new life, I have come to love the Sacrament of Penance. Accepting the truth that I am a sinner no longer brings me shame. I am a child of God, loved for who I am here and now. Going to confession allows the healing that comes with reconciling oneself with our Heavenly Father. This nature towards sinfulness, or concupiscence, is a human weakness, not easy to overcome. Knowing that I can unburden my heart of my sins is a beautiful gift I do not take lightly. Without fail, when I come out of confession, I feel light-hearted and free. I have confidence knowing that it was God who has forgiven me through the absolution of the priest. I admit, I don’t always go the recommended once a month, but my reason no longer has anything to do with pride or fear.

Now, in this season of Lent, is the perfect time to consider reconciliation, especially those who have stayed away for years –even decades. I will make you a promise that after you go to confession and purge all the sinfulness that’s been carried around inside, you will feel the love of Christ burning in your heart. You will be prepared to experience the Passion of Christ in the days to come feeling humbled and sorrowful, but no longer burdened. You will be prepared to celebrate His Glorious rising on Easter Sunday with a full, loving heart. REPENT= REJOICE