Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

Lent is approaching, and a contributor from Missio Dei Catholic reflects on the spiritual practice of giving up one's ego during this period. The writer shares a personal experience of asking God what to give up for Lent, receiving an unexpected answer: "your ego." Initially shocked and offended by the response, the author delves into understanding what ego means in this context.

The reflection reveals a realization about being a control freak and the struggle with trying to manage everything, including divine plans. A friend highlights that God has placed them in situations beyond their control, prompting further introspection. This leads to acknowledging attempts to take over God's role by dictating timelines and outcomes.

"Ego is the control we try to exert over God," the author writes, emphasizing that relinquishing ego equates to surrendering control. The plan for Lent involves offering daily challenges back to God as acts of grace, recognizing these are beyond personal creation or influence.

The piece concludes with an invitation for others to consider letting go of their egos instead of traditional sacrifices like caffeine. "Giving up coffee is great but giving up yourself is greater," it suggests, encouraging readers to return what belongs to God.

This article was initially published in Missio Dei Catholic and reprinted with permission. Missio Dei was founded by Phillip Hadden, associated with St. Alexius in Beardstown.