The Lenten Mission continued last night with the facilitator sharing the story of Romero’s courageous act to reclaim the church that had been desecrated. The courage of an archbishop and his faithful people change the stubborn hearts of the soldiers who eventually move out of the way, allowing the people to claim what is rightfully theirs. They do not let the fear of death prevent them from doing the right thing.

The questions for last night were what fears do you want to let go of? What challenge do you need to embrace? Is there a person or a dream or a part of your history that you need to let go? The facilitator likened us to an egg that is about to break open–there is a newness wanting to come out.

I could not help but think that prior to the newness a brokenness must occur. There is no birth without a ripping or tearing. Easter is no different. To get there, Good Friday must be lived. The lily does not bloom without the death of a seed.

After the formal part of the mission, reconciliation took place. As I came before the priest, my heart was both heavy and free. I have no illusions that the surgery I have to go through has many risks. I remain hopeful and positive but there is a sobering to knowing that life, like that Easter lily, is fragile. For years, I have loved the sacrament of reconciliation. Last night was no different. This particular priest clearly takes his duties seriously and reverently, as do I in this sacrament. The healing that Catholics receive when properly confessing is extraordinary. I left the encounter stronger and wiser, knowing that God loves this beloved daughter. The closing ritual was to place a little Easter egg in a vase. I picked up my blue egg and held it for a moment, grateful, and then I dropped it into the community of eggs waiting for mine.

Will you let your egg be cracked this Lent?

Peace,

Suzanne