As we once again come to Ash Wednesday and Lent, I want to share again the following prayer that for me speaks to the balance this season can point us toward,
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}