In a world that encourages the avoidance of pain, shortcuts to joy, and subtle-yet-significant forms of self-indulgence, Lent invites us to identify with Christ in His suffering through self-denial, confession, and repentance of sin, so that we may share with Christ in His glory (Romans 8:17). Lent is not sullen, but sobering because we trace the shadow of our sin through the shadow of Christ’s cross and empty tomb. In the season of Lent, we remember the great forgiveness that we have received, and are stirred to love and treasure Christ in response (Luke 7:47).
Changes in a season or new year often invite us to consider and practice new rhythms. That is why in this Lenten season we will use the Prayer of Examen (or Daily Examen, or Examen) to move through this season in the Church calendar.