Time passes quickly, especially as we reach a certain age. However, there are periods in the year that invite us to stop, value every moment, and giving it “the dynamic echo of eternity” as St. Josemaría wrote. Lent is, undoubtedly, one of those privileged moments.
The Pope’s Message for Lent 2026
In his message for this year 2026, Pope Leo XIV proposes three fundamental pillars for these 40 days leading to Easter. First, we must know how to listen. Second, we must know how to fast. Finally, we must do it together. In this way, we can experience that life is not a solo journey, but one shared with many others.
For this reason, we share the moving letter of a young mother and family doctor. This text can be considered a poem in prose, where no one is a “single verse”.
The Letter: The Weight and Gift of Time
“If only the day had more hours,” we think as we rush, feeling that time is never enough for family, work, friends, and life.
But one day -without warning- time changes its face. I see it especially in elderly patients: “If only the day had fewer hours.” Because for many, time is no longer lacking; instead, it feels heavy. The day moves slowly and silently, with doorbells and cell phones that never ring.
We can all transform an endless afternoon into a long-awaited and happy moment, just by being there. Especially for those who once gave us everything.
Perhaps we don’t need more hours, but rather a greater presence in the hours of others.
Dr. Trinidad Zégers Vial
Family Physician, Catholic University of Chile
How to live a meaningful Lent?
Considering that we have a limited time ahead of us, the key lies in the quality of our presence. Therefore, it is essential not to grow tired of listening: first to God, and immediately after, to those around us, starting with those closest to us.
In addition to listening, fasting takes on a deeper dimension. It is not simply a physical discipline or about “losing weight,” but about uplifting the spirit. As seen in the Pope’s message, we should fast primarily from:
- Hurting words: Those that damage the dignity of our neighbor.
- Judgments: Which prevent reconciliation.
- Indifference: To become people who truly live for others.
Ultimately, this Lent is an opportunity to remember that our identity is fulfilled when we give ourselves to the service and company of others; when we try to bring a message of peace and hope to those around us.
The letter was published in the newspaper El Mercurio.
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