On Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten season, we went to church to receive ashes on our foreheads. With this, we promised
ourselves and God how we would observe the season, increasing the time spent with the Lord in prayer, fasting - giving up our favourite foods or some luxuries we enjoy and sharing with the less fortunate that which we have an abundance of. We set out to do this to bring ourselves closer to God. Although it has not been easy, there have been times when we were challenged and, like Peter, have responded confidently and are filled with hope that we will withstand whatever temptations come our
way.
We are familiar with the narration of the Last Supper. Peter said with conviction, "even though I should have to die with you, I will not deny you. But when the time came, fear and weakness overpowered him, and he could not stand by what he had said.
Maybe we are like Peter or have been like Peter, particularly about our Lenten promises. We have yet to fulfil our promises, which could be due to several reasons. But the Lord is giving us the reassurance we need that
it is not too late; it is never too late to fulfil our promises. We are presented with the opportunity today to start again. There is no closing date for prayer or spending time with the Lord to deepen our relationship with him. We must be present in helping our communities and those in need. There will always be a need for our help. There will always be opportunities for us.
Where are you invited to ‘try again’ in your life of faith? Are you open to this invitation from the Lord? Spend time reflecting on where the Lord is calling you during this Holy Week and ask for the grace to respond with openness and
generosity.
