Each year the trees give us a lesson in renewal. First the bud, then the blossom, and finally the shoot. Spring dresses the trees in a new robe and makes them young again. But this is possible only because in Autumn they let go of their old leaves and in between endured a period of nakedness. Lent is in the springtime of the spirit. Lord, help us not to be afraid to let go of old habits and to face our spiritual poverty, in order that you may renew us, and so at Easter we will feel young again in our discipleship.