Shifting Sand

Saturday of the Fourth Week of Lent

Sometimes you might see images of a desert during Lent to remind us that just as Jesus went into the desert, so must we. Sand is constantly shifting due to wind or other factors. An image I have used with high school students at the time of a penance service was a tray of sand. Students could write something in the sand while waiting for their turn for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Perhaps it was a symbol, design, or letter of something they wanted to change in their lives. After receiving the sacrament, they could return to the sand if they wished, to again draw or write something significant. Students caught the point of the shifting sand; namely, we are in the process of reconciliation together. What we do and say has an impact on others. We have the power to help other improve their lives.