“Lent is the time to rediscover the direction of life.  Because in life’s journey, as in every journey, what really matters is not to lose sight of the goal…What is the path? Is it the search for health, which many today say comes first but which eventually passes?  Could it be possessions and wellbeing?...The Lord is the goal of our journey in this world.  The direction must lead to him” (Pope Francis) 

As we begin our Lenten journey this Ash Wednesday, we are called to reflect on where we are now in relationship to God and where do we want to be, not only by Easter, but ultimately at the end of our earthly life. As we look back, we can see how often we have strayed from our goal, eternal life with God. We can see the lies we accepted and the fool’s gold we went after. Lent is a time to refocus, to redirect, to reignite our desire to be with God. The stronger this desire is the more focused and determined our efforts will be to move forward towards the Lord. We know that we have been on this same journey in past Lents, what will make a difference? Our desire to reach the goal. Our desire to truly be converted and remain focus on the Lord. And if we slip, to get back on the path rather than give up.