Persevering in the Desert

As we make our way through this Lenten season, you might find yourself weary. This is a very common struggle for the faithful! The fervor that we had at the beginning of the season may have turned to exhaustion, or even resentment for the sacrifices we committed to.

If you are tired of the long trek that is Lent, I encourage you to take a few minutes today and sit with our Lord in the desert. Feel His hunger and thirst. Imagine His prayer. Remember that He struggled! He knows what it’s like to crave food and comfort. Then lean into His strength and ask Him to work through you. 

It is very common to downplay the importance of fasting in our minds. Perhaps we tell ourselves that our penance isn’t a big deal; that God doesn’t really care. But the truth is that God cares about your relationship with Him and your sacrifices matter to Him. He does not rely on your penance as something He needs, yet He wants you to persevere because it’s good for you to be free from earthly comforts, addictions, and obsessions. 



Fortitude is a virtue and defined as “courage in pain or adversity.” A person is not born with an ability to persevere, it is something that is obtained through lots of practice and supernatural grace. Resolve to do small acts of penance and you will see progress in your fortitude, self-control, and patience.

There’s an old Christian saying that applies here: “God loves you just the way you are, but He loves you too much to let you stay that way.” God is not satisfied with half your heart. He is not content with a few holy days of obligation. He wants to help you break free, but you have to choose Him. 

Whether you have kept all of your commitments or forgotten to set a single one, resolve today to pursue the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Write down your intentions for penance and review them daily. Come to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, set aside more time for prayer, and ask your friends to pray for you. With a little practice and a lot of grace, you will grow in fortitude and be much happier because of it.

Remember that all of this fasting, prayer, and almsgiving is for your benefit. God does not instruct and discipline us for His own need. It’s all for you! He wants to see you grow in strength and courage this season; pick up your cross daily and follow our Lord!