Today we had Archbishop Miller as the celebrant at our 11AM mass, it’s only 2 weeks before Easter. He is quite an eloquent speaker. He joked that his homily was quite long but it didn’t really seem that long. He’s very passionate and his voice rose several times during the homily as he emphasized some key points.

Archbishop Miller talked about the Paschal Mystery. What is the Paschal Mystery? Jesus takes on our suffering, bears it, and moves through it to resurrection. This is “the paschal mystery.” He encouraged us to draw deeper into ourselves as we approach Easter and really appreciate the journey of discovery.

I thought a lot about my own Lenten journey. My parents are on the last pages of their book of life.

I’ve been privileged to spend time with them. I’ve witnessed very intimate conversation between them as they share a room in a care facility. Neither are mobile, neither are able to dress themselves or do the simplest of things without assistance. They sometimes still go to the dining room to join the community of residents but more and more they stay in bed. They wonder where they are sometimes and now often ask to “go home”. They are tired and depressed.

As the Archbishop speaks I think of one of those intimate moments I witnessed. My mom says she is scared to die. My father responds to her that he is dying too, and it’s ok. My mom says that 64 years is a long time to be married to which my father responds “64 years is good. It’s enough”.

In that, I know they are resigned to the fact their days are coming to a close and they are ready. As Jesus accepted His fate, they acknowledge the beauty of the life they have lived and are ready to move through it to eternity.

I’ve really struggled this Lent to adhere to commitments like fasting or no meat on Fridays, and unlike so many other years did not give any consideration to what I was “giving up” for 40 days. None.

HOWEVER, I can honestly say I have had one of my most profound, prayer-filled, thoughtful Lenten Season experiences ever. And I’m grateful for every heart-breaking, beautiful, joyful, love-filled moment.