In the weeks leading to Easter, my mind returns to the powerful example of Jesus Christ during His brief ministry. He was only thirty when He was baptised, beginning His ministry, and thirty-three when He was crucified, writes Linda Kavelin-Popov.

March 5 to April 17 is the period of Lent this year, commemorating the forty days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness – the desert where he was led by the Holy Spirit after His baptism. Preparing for His ministry, He fasted for forty days and was tempted three times by the devil. How did He answer? By quoting scripture, calling on the power of the Word.

While it is the Polynesian way to be communal, to identify more as a people than an individual, there are times when one must meet one’s own destiny alone, as Jesus did. Lent and Easter are not just about outer actions such as fasting or going to church. They bring powerful spiritual energy to reflect on our tests and temptations. It’s a time to discern God’s will at this time in your life and to answer, “Yes”. If you have the courage, here is a way to approach your own Eastering at this season of your life – to resurrect new life in alignment with the purpose God has entrusted to you. You were brought here now to play your part in the Divine plan. Honestly, it’s about living your best life ever. God knows what you need to live abundantly far better than you ever could.

Here are three steps to take to get the very most out of the Lenten and Easter season:

1. Prayerfulness: Spend time in prayer daily, sincerely asking God to be with you and to show you the truth. Fast in some form, if that is right for you. Ask yourself how you are really. Your prayers are like a magnet for Grace. “Ask and ye shall receive.” Journaling is helpful in recording your thoughts, feelings, questions and God’s response.
2. Accountability: Look at the earthly temptations that pull at you. What tempts you? Is it pride of the ego keeping resentments alive? Ignoring the call of righteousness – to do the right thing? Examine the tests you face and ask yourself what virtues you need to overcome them. How is your soul leading you? Is there something you have been struggling with? A First Nations medicine man once asked me, “Linda, would you rather be driven or would you rather be led?”
3.  Surrender: Are you asking for the right things? Are you asking what God’s will is for you rather than attempting to impose your will on God? This is the soul work we are meant to do. Jesus made the hardest commitment ever. Three times he prayed, “Father, if it’s possible, take this cup of suffering from my lips. But let your will be done rather than mine.”

In every life, there is a need for sacrifice – giving up the pride of the ego in order to grow, to forgive, to love, to be loyal. When you pass on, all you take with you are the virtues of your soul. If you are able to give up the love of power for the power of love, you will have chosen true joy and purpose. You are saying “Yes” to God.