Henri Nouwen on Lent

“God’s mercy is greater than our sins. There is an awareness of sin that does not lead to God but rather to self-preoccupation. Our temptation is to be so impressed by our sins and failings and so overwhelmed by our lack of generosity that we get stuck in a paralyzing guilt. It is the guilt that says, ‘I am too sinful to deserve God’s mercy.’ It is the guilt that leads to introspection instead of directing our eyes to God. It is the guilt that has become an idol and therefore a form of pride. Lent is the time to break down this idol and direct our attention to our Loving Lord.“

Henri Nouwen

For more by Henri Nouwen see these posts:

Discernment by Henri Nouwen with Michael J. Christensen and Rebecca J. Laird–Book Review

Spiritual Formation by Henri Nouwen–Book Review

Learning from Henri Nouwen & Vincent van Gogh by Carol A. Berry–Book Review