Virtue and Iniquity are two very big words to reflect upon as we begin our Lenten journey. Much has been written and said about both, for these two words not only define a person, but, as Ezekiel says, hold the key to our salvation. When someone virtuous turns away from virtue to commit iniquity, and dies, it is because of the iniquity he committed that he must die. \

Early philosophers dwelt on the importance of a life well lived and settled on the four cardinal virtues, often defined as prudence, temperance, fortitude and justice; while Apostle Paul stressed the theological virtues of faith, hope and love, with the greatest, as we so well know, being love.

Throughout the ages, virtue and its importance have continued to be reflected upon. As a young statesman in a new world, Benjamin Franklin thought the best way to cultivate his character was to strive to live a virtuous life, and he expanded the list to 13 virtues. To track his success, he devised a daily report card to grade his progress in his quest for what he called “moral perfection.”

So here we are in the 21st century, in a noisy, messy world that seems to relish in destroying the moral standards that have stood the test of time for over 2,000 years. How do we respond to God’s call to live a virtuous life? To let the voice of God within our hearts be our North Star to do what is right and just? To be virtuous?

Becoming a more virtuous person is not a one-time event, like winning a Super Bowl, but rather a journey that lasts a lifetime. And the path is all too often crooked, choked with weeds and uphill. Difficult, to say the least. But we are fortunate that we do not walk this path alone, but rather, with God at our side to guide us.

Unfortunately, God didn’t prepare a list of the traits one must possess to live a virtuous life. Rather, within the Bible are passages that illustrate the kinds of traits that a person of virtue should stive for. As we read the Bible and reacquaint ourselves with them, let’s put them into practice, so we become more Christ-like in all we do and say, and open our hearts and minds to his calling and the power to make this a better world.

As we continue in these early days of Lent, let’s commit to getting to know God better. To spend more time reading the Bible. To invite the Holy Spirit into our lives each day with the hope that by acknowledging his presence, we can come to understand what it means to be Christ-like and work to emulate him in our thoughts, words and deeds.

If we allow Christ to lead us, then the path will be made straight, and we can live a virtuous life that gives honor to our Lord.