Writing A Love Letter to Jesus
By Mary Grace Dostalik
Without even consciously realizing it, I got stuck in the cycle of seeking fulfillment from the world. I thought that if I was thinner, I would be happier. I thought if I had a more successful dance career, I would feel completed. I thought that if I got the best grades, my life would be better. I thought I would be deemed successful if I was in a serious relationship. None of these things fulfilled me. Even when I completed or came close to completing my goals I was unsatisfied. I wanted more.
You can pray and go to mass, but it is impossible to get closer to Jesus if you do not surrender yourself to him and allow yourself to truly love him. Let your guard down. Let Christ love you. I think there are a lot of others stuck in the same cycle I was. Wanting to be accepted and loved yet seeking fulfillment in the wrong places without even knowing it.
Today, I want to share a simple practice I have begun this Lent that has helped me fall deeper in love with Jesus and release my attachment to the world. I’ve begun to regularly write love letters to Christ. Writing letters to Jesus, though it may seem kind of arbitrary, allows you to express your love and devotion to Christ in a very tangible way. It aids in developing a personal relationship with Jesus. Write why you love Him. Write about your insecurities. These letters do not have to be complex. They can be simple and childish. Simply write out your thoughts. Tell Jesus you love Him.
In my first letter, all I wrote was, Oh Jesus, I love you. I am yours. Help me love you better. St. Therese of Lisieux writes, “There exists but one Being capable of comprehending love; it is Jesus; He alone can give us back infinitely more than we shall ever give to him. Jesus—the only one truly capable of understanding our hearts.” His love is everywhere if you are brave enough to relinquish yourself to him.
Writing these letters will help you recognize all the small ways you see God’s love in your life. It’s a great way to reflect and thank God for all the ways He loves you. If you’re at a loss to begin a letter, these tips may help:
1. Tell Jesus you love him—whether you choose to write a simple “I love you” or a more elaborate message.
2. Make a list of the ways you have seen Christ’s love in your life today.
3. Tell Jesus your fears and insecurities. Ask him to release you from the things which are keeping you from loving him better.
Jesus is waiting. His arms are open. Are you ready to disregard your worldly desires and love him? May you fall deeper in love with Jesus this Lent.
