"The purpose of Lent is not force on us a few formal obligations, but to 'soften' our heart so that it may open itself to the realities of the spirit, to experience the hidden 'thirst" for communion with God." St. John Paul II

If our penances during Lent don't open our heart to thirst more for God, then our actions may be mere external rather internal transformation. This should be true, not only during Lent, but throughout the year. God desires a deeper communion with us, because of his great love for us. Do we desire a deeper relationship with the living God, because of our love? We are called to seek the Lord with our whole heart. He seeks us, but waits for us to want more of him in our lives. What will accomplish this in your life? Don't settle for trinkets when you can have the real stuff.