189 – Ash Wednesday – Intention on the Spiritual Journey

And Lent begins today.  Maybe you have already been reading and thinking about Ash Wednesday and Lent and I would like only to put one item before you today.  I shared this prayer last year and I offer it again for your consideration.

Fast from judging others;
feast on the Christ indwelling in them.
 
Fast from emphasis on differences;
feast on the unity of all life.
 
Fast from apparent darkness;
feast on the reality of light.
 
Fast from words that pollute;
feast on phrases that purify.
 
Fast from discontent;
feast on gratitude.
 
Fast from anger;
feast on patience.
 
Fast from pessimism;
feast on optimism.
 
Fast from worry;
feast on trust.
 
Fast from complaining;
feast on appreciation.
 
Fast from negatives;
feast on affirmatives.
 
Fast from unrelenting pressures;
feast on unceasing prayer.
 
Fast from hostility;
feast on nonviolence.
 
Fast from bitterness;
feast on forgiveness.
 
Fast from self-concern;
feast on compassion for others.
 
Fast from personal anxiety;
feast on eternal truth.
 
Fast from discouragement;
feast on hope.
 
Fast from facts that depress;
feast on truths that uplift.
 
Fast from lethargy;
feast on enthusiasm.
 
Fast from suspicion;
feast on truth.
 
Fast from thoughts that weaken;
feast on promises that inspire.
 
Fast from idle gossip;
feast on purposeful silence.
 
Gentle God,
during this season of fasting and feasting,
gift us with your presence
so we can be a gift to others in carrying out your work.
 
Amen.

 


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