# Returning to God
*2020-01-26*

> Bill Young reflects on the beginning of Lent and the importance of returning to God with a whole heart, drawing from the writings of Father Henry J.M. Newman.

## The Call to Return

Today is Thursday after Ash Wednesday, and we are continuing our reflections from the book 'The Journey of the Heart: Lenten Reflections and Prayers' by Father Henry J.M. Newman. Today's theme is 'Returning to God,' centered on the beautiful words of Jeremiah 24:7: 'I will give them a heart to know that I am the Lord and they shall return to me with their whole heart.'

## The Spirit of Lent

Father Newman admits a feeling many of us share: that we aren't always ready for Lent. Christmas seems to have just passed, and Lent can feel like an unwelcome guest. We often feel we could have used a few more weeks to prepare for this season of repentance, prayer, and preparation for the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Jesus stressed the importance of the hidden life. Whatever alms we give, however we pray or fast, we are to do it in a hidden way. The goal is not to be praised by people, but to enter into the closest possible communion with God.

## Finding True Satisfaction

Lent is a time of returning to God. It is a time to confess how we often look for joy, peace, and satisfaction in the people and things surrounding us, without ever truly finding what we desire. Only God can give us what we truly want. Therefore, we must be reconciled with God, and as St. Paul says, let that reconciliation be the basis of our relationship with others. Lent is a time of refocusing, returning to the place of truth, and reclaiming our true identity.

## Practical Steps for Spiritual Growth

As we ask God to help us return to Him this Lent, there are practical ways to deepen our faith. One suggestion is the total consecration to the Father through Jesus based on the Gospel of John, found in Father Michael Gaitley's book '33 Days of Greater Glory.' 

Additionally, I encourage you to continue the consecration to St. Joseph. For those already consecrated to Mary through Jesus, adding St. Joseph completes what I call the 'earthly triangle'—the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. In a world where the concept of family is under attack and facing so much craziness, it is more important than ever to get our families back together and anchor them in this spiritual example.

*Lent is a season to stop seeking satisfaction in the world and instead return to God to reclaim our true identity.*