Kyknet Lent Guide 2022Sample

Augustine wrote: “The whole life of a good Christian is holy longing. What you desire, you can’t yet see. But the desire gives you the ability to be fulfilled when you see it...”

We all have a deep inner longing for happiness. We long to be fulfilled. Having a sense of meaning in one’s life contributes greatly to whether a person flourishes or not. Whether we find it in our faith, our life goals or our long term dreams, we are all in search of it. The problem is that all these things that contribute to our sense of meaning and significance don’t save us from all the things that rob us of our joy: disappointment, loss, disintegration of relationships, illness and death.

One translation of Jesus’ first beatitude is: “Happy are those who know their need for God.” When we admit our needs and longings, we take our first step towards wisdom and a deeper relationship with God. Within our deepest longings, the Holy Spirit leads us to God and His longing for us. He satiates our search.

Reflection

What people, things or places do you use to satiate your longing for happiness?

Grace

Lord, I ask for the grace to articulate the longings of my heart.