February 2026
Reflections of God's Goodness

It seems that the older I get, the faster time goes. Lent kind of sneaks up on me! This coming season is a time to remember and reflect on God’s great story and how we are part of it. Now is the time to make space in our lives for God. On one occasion, Pope Francis described it this way:

“Fasting, prayer, and almsgiving are not three independent acts, but a single movement of openness and self-emptying, which frees us from idols and from the weight of our worldliness.” — Lent Message, 2024

So, what steps will we take to make room for God? Traditionally, we use tools of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving and service to others. 

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.”  James 4:8a

What distracts you from prayer? How can you pray more fruitfully? Fasting doesn’t necessarily mean giving up food, sweets or alcohol, but it could. If those things need to be brought back to right order in your life, then choose what, when and how you can do that. Sometimes, fasting from food for a day helps us get in touch with our hunger for God.

Another area that often interferes with our ‘space’ for God is technology. TV, social media, the Internet, even curiosity or research can send us on a wild goose chase that can consume hours of our life!

“Return to me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning.” Joel 2:12b

We can be distracted about many things. How can we have space and time for God, or hear His voice, if our hearts and minds are full of the world?

 “Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.'”Matthew 16:24

There is added power in our Lenten experience, when we realize that we are in this with our own community and the worldwide Christian community preparing for the coming joy of Easter. Look for opportunities to serve others, local food pantries, soup kitchens, an elderly neighbor, or single mother struggling with household needs.

“When you look for me, you will find me. Yes, when you seek me with all your heart, I will let you find me.” Jeremiah 29:13-14a

Let us seek Him with all our hearts and welcome the grace and joy of transformed hearts. Our God is faithful to His Word and will do more than we can imagine.

Blessings,

Sister Mary Ann Barnhorn, SNDdeN