If Jesus were in your home, how would He feel about how you treat each other? Would He be proud of his brothers and sisters? We all do things we aren’t proud of, like fighting, name-calling, or not picking up. Lent is almost here and it’s time to think about ways to renew our family. I have a list of reflections that you can put on the refrigerator. Take one each day and think about it. Find a notebook that you can journal in, or have a discussion night with your parents, or do both. Discover the reasons you react the way you do. Use your answers to work on one or more of your weaker points during lent.

1.       What tone of voice do I use with my family?

2.       Do I share my things?

3.       Do I enjoy it if my family prays together? Why or why not?

4.       Do I pick up my things without being told?

5.       How long has it been since I’ve given my brother or sister a hug for no reason?

6.       Does my family know I am happy when they come home?

7.       Do I help my without any one asking?

8.       How do I feel when someone compliments, especially family members?

9.       Do I say I’m sorry? Why not?

10.   Do I feel unloved by my family? Why?

11.   Do I say I complain during lent? Why?

If you use these questions as a starting point, you will be learn about yourself. After you write in your journal get together and light a candle, put on quiet music, and really listen to each other. Decide where you can work on yourself, during lent. It will be fun to see if anyone notices the difference. The changes you make may help someone else to change. It could make your Lent, Easter, and life amazing. It will make your home happier place, after a hard day. Then, if Jesus visits, He will be very proud of his brothers and sisters.

**Editor's Note: While Lent is now over, these reflections are great reminders of Jesus in our daily lives. Read and try them. Then watch the peace begin to grow. **