Lenten Choices

Since I first came across this prayer several years ago, I have shared it a number of times in a number of places. Today, this first Friday of Lent, it seems a good time to share it again.

Allow me a suggestion. Today and this weekend read over the prayer a few times and see what pair(s) draw you the most. Then as you have occasion offer that as your prayer. And maybe on this Sunday, the first feast day of this year’s Lenten season, you can see how you are drawn to God’s banquet table. We’ll get back together Monday to see how it has been.

And now, the prayer –

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.

charles

{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}


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Lenten Choices — 1 Comment

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