Day Four: The Radical Choice
Saturday After Ash Wednesday

Scripture Passage:
“And He called the crowd, and His disciples, and said to them, ‘If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.’” (Mark 8:34)

Opening Reflection:
Today, we are called to make a radical choice, a choice that demands leaving behind all that hinders our full commitment to Christ. Just as Jesus invites us to deny ourselves and take up our cross, we too must confront and let go of the attachments that keep us from embracing His call.

Meditative Reflection:
The call to follow Christ is not always comfortable; it requires us to surrender familiar comforts and face the unknown with faith. Reflect on the areas in your life where you cling to worldly pleasures or old habits. By choosing to let go, you open your heart to the transformative power of God’s grace. This radical choice is not a rejection of life, but an invitation to a deeper, more meaningful journey with Christ a journey where every sacrifice is a step closer to His love. Consider how, by willingly embracing this call, you can experience the liberating power of true discipleship.

Reflection Questions:

  • What attachments or habits in your life are keeping you from fully following Christ?
  • In what ways can making a radical choice today lead you toward a deeper relationship with God?

Lenten Question:
Q: Why is it important to make radical choices on our spiritual journey?
A: Because radical choices help us break free from worldly constraints, allowing us to fully align our lives with God’s will and experience the transformative grace that comes from true discipleship.

Lenten Action:
Today, identify one area of your life where you feel particularly attached whether it’s a habit, an attitude, or a comfort and commit to taking one concrete step to let it go. Write it down, pray over it, and if possible, share your intention with someone who can support you in this journey.

Concluding Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You call us to a radical life of self-denial and true discipleship. Grant us the courage to leave behind the attachments that bind us and to follow You with a willing and joyful heart. Transform our lives through Your grace so that every sacrifice becomes a stepping stone to a deeper relationship with You. Help us to embrace Your call fully, trusting that the path of radical discipleship leads us to eternal life. We ask this in Your holy name. Amen.

Resources for Lenten Prayers and Reflections:

Daily Saints and Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Lenten Reflections | EWTN | https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/reflections/lent

Lenten Prayers and Daily Reflections | My Catholic Life | https://mycatholic.life/lent-prayers-reflections/