March 9, 2022
Dear Friends,
Have you ever had the experience of different people telling you the same message, and you finally said ‘I GET IT!’? Well, let me share this with you: several times this Sunday, I kept hearing ‘don’t be tempted to let your Lenten resolutions go by the wayside’. Then, in my reflection book, I read: Know your pet faults. Okay, I’ve been trying to do that. I GET IT!
Seriously, God does have a sense of humor. When I read my reflection for the day and it said that we can become very busy during Lent, so why not take a piece of paper and pen and make a list of your ‘pet faults or vices’? Well, I had already done that in my head and started working on those ‘pet faults’. What made me happy was when the author quoted one of my favorite lines: “Jesus said, those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick do” (Mk 2:17). If you are not sick, you don’t need a healer, and you don’t need Lent. I must admit that I need both.
So, what do I do with this list? Try turning your ‘pet faults’ upside down. How do I do that? Well, if you find yourself very impatient with a certain person or situation, kill them with kindness. If you are stingy with your time or sharing ideas, be generous and help someone out; share your ideas, and don’t play your cards so close to your vest. Are you more concerned with how you are being treated and claim entitlement? What about those who do not have a voice? Can you reach out and help in some way, in spite of what it costs you?
These are only a few examples, though I am sure there are many more out there and you already know your ‘pet faults’. Each of us can make our own list. And let me tell you, the scary part is that the book suggests if your sheet is empty, you can always ask someone you live or work with to identify your ‘pet faults’. They might have better eyesight! I think I can create my own honest list – fingers crossed!
During this week, take a look at your ‘pet faults’. The temptation may be to go back to the same old-same old this Lent, and let this opportunity pass by. The choice is yours. Jesus made some great choices while in the desert being tempted; why not follow His example?
May your week be filled with much awakening and healing!
Till next week,
Sister Theresita
