One week to go in the Lenten journey. Bishop Don Hying said that St. Francis Assisi used to go on elaborate 40-day fasts in preparation for Easter, and St. Francis would deliberately goof up near the end – just to remain humble, just to ensure he didn’t get big headed. Bishop Don said that he struggles with his Lenten pledges, and he said the key is to start each day anew.

Now we’re down to seven days, each day an opportunity for more spiritual growth, a stronger relationship with God, and a greater commitment to glorify God with our lives. Whatever it takes – reading scripture, daily prayer, contemplative reflection, Reconciliation, the Stations of the Cross, mass, sacrifice, generosity, hospitality, kindness, patience, understanding, charity, love – give it all you’ve got. We’re in the home stretch.