Benefits of Lent and Penance

[ 4 ] February 13, 2013 AD |

With Lent upon us, it is usually the custom to give up something for penance. This is such a great tradition because we need a lot of penance in these times, especially in order to make up for our sins and save souls. Let us then see the benefits of the upcoming graces we can gain through penance.

The first reason, and most important, is to make up for our sins and grow in virtue. We only have a limited time here on earth. Every day we get closer to our death, so why not make up for our sins now, here on earth, rather than in the cleansing fires of Purgatory? We often forget that this life has been given to us as a test of the love of God. Lent is a magnificent reminder of this. We mustn’t simply aim for mediocrity, but rather strive to be a great saint, especially this Lent!

The second reason would be to save souls. We read in the lives of the saints how they were able to save many souls with their great acts of prayer and penance. Why can’t we also? Not only should this encourage us, but with the news of the Holy Father’s abdication, we could pray for him and his successor especially. Imagine what a great victory it would be for you at the Last Judgment to have one hundred souls behind you, only because you said some prayers and did a little penance.

Thirdly, it gives the greatest glory to God because we’re denying ourselves the world we live in, which will help us get closer to heaven. Why only work hard for the things of this earth, which are going to be taken away from us when we die anyway? Therefore take advantage of the Lenten season, and strengthen the things for eternity.

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About the Author ()

Alexandra Reis is a 16-year-old cradle Catholic. Her passions consist of learning and writing about the Faith and trying to spread it. She is drawn to the traditional Latin Mass. She is also interested in poetry, art, playing the piano, and acquiring wisdom at a young age. She hopes to become a writer and professional public speaker in the future in order to save souls for the greater glory of God.

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  • Monique

    Good article Alexandra!

    We really need to take advantage of this Lenten season. It is a gift from God. We only need to use our sufferings to do good. Thank you for reminding us that our time is short on esrth and we should use the time we have to pay off our punishment due to sin and store up treasure in heaven; while bringing as many souls with us that we can for the greater glory of God. May God bless you always.

    • Alexandra Reis

      Thank you so much, I’m glad you enjoyed it! Lent is always the best time to remember these things, and it’s always such a blessing to take advantage of the things the season offers. God bless!

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