“I Gave It Up”
Taking a different look at fasting during Lent

“That others may be loved more than I; That others may be esteemed more than I; That others may be chosen and I set aside; Jesus grant me the grace to desire it.” Through these words, we are able to set aside our own wants and needs and focus on those of our neighbor. When reflecting on your own personal Lenten journey and with Easter almost upon us, recite these words and allow them to guide you. When choosing to humble ourselves, we begin to encounter all the graces God has bestowed upon us and through this are able to prepare for the ultimate act of humility and sacrifice, Christ’s emptying of himself through his death on the cross.
By choosing to make this Lent about my neighbor and focusing on their desires currently, the virtues of love and temperance have been showcased, while the sins of jealousy, hate, and anger have been greatly avoided. As this Lenten journey comes to an end, I encourage us to take the focus away from what we “gave” up and rather what can we give. What can I give to my loved ones? Can it be an additional prayer each day, an extra rosary throughout the week, or maybe a visit to adoration? Whatever it may be, let us welcome Christ by exemplifying humility in our daily thoughts and actions.