40 Days of Grace (Day 4): Becoming Who God Calls You to Be

March 8, 2025: Today, on Women's Day, we honour the holy women of God from different walks of life, showing that no matter our vocation—whether we are mothers, nuns, queens, businesswomen, or servants of the poor—God calls each of us to holiness in our unique journey. Lent is a time of deep reflection, renewal, and drawing closer to God.

On Day 4 of ’40 Days of Grace’, let us ask ourselves: How is God calling me to holiness in my current state of life? What sacrifices can I make to grow closer to Him? How can I use my gifts to serve others? The lives of these women remind us that Lent is not just about what we give up but about who we become.

St. Clare of Assisi – Detachment from the World

As a young woman, St. Clare left behind her noble life to embrace poverty and follow Christ. She teaches us that true joy does not come from possessions but from complete trust in God.

What worldly attachments are holding me back from fully trusting in God? Can I simplify my life this Lent to focus more on spiritual growth?

St. Monica – Perseverance in Prayer

As the mother of St. Augustine, St. Monica endured years of sorrow as her son strayed from the faith. Yet, she never ceased praying for his conversion, which eventually came.

Do I persist in prayer, even when I do not see immediate results? Who in my life needs my prayers the most this Lent?

St. Elizabeth of Hungary – Charity and Service

Despite her royal status, St. Elizabeth dedicated her life to serving the poor and sick, even building hospitals and personally caring for the suffering.

Am I using my resources—whether time, money, or talents—to serve those in need? How can I practice greater generosity this Lent?

St. Katharine Drexel - Wealth Used for Good

A wealthy heiress, St. Katharine Drexel could have lived a life of luxury, yet she chose to use her fortune to uplift marginalized communities.

Do I see my career and financial blessings as opportunities to serve God and others? How can I use what I have for the good of those less fortunate?

Dorothy Day – Repentance and Justice

Dorothy Day, a journalist and social activist, led a life of mistakes and searching before embracing Catholicism. She founded the Catholic Worker Movement, advocating for justice and living in solidarity with the poor.

Are there areas in my life where I need to seek God’s mercy and transformation? How can I stand up for justice in my community this Lent?

Blessed Maria Quattrocchi – Holiness in Family Life

Blessed Maria, along with her husband, lived out her faith through love and service within her marriage. She reminds us that holiness is possible in everyday family life, in the small acts of love and sacrifice.

Do I show patience, love, and sacrifice in my relationships? How can I bring Christ into my home and family life more intentionally?

Answering God’s Call This Lent

No matter your vocation, God calls us to holiness in the life we are living right now. Whether through prayer, service, sacrifice, or repentance, each of us has a unique path to sainthood.

As we continue our Lenten journey, let us reflect: How can I walk more faithfully with Christ? What is one change I can make today to become the person God is calling me to be? May this season transform our hearts and draw us closer to the love and mercy of Christ.

By Catholic Connect Reporter