On the first Sunday in Lent, we hear the reading from Mark where Jesus is sent into the wilderness. Describe a ‘wilderness time’ in your life.
The Veteran in a New Field by Winslow Homer
Peggy and I offer together our reflection for this season of Lent.
We have certainly experienced times in our lives together and separately when we have felt alone, misunderstood and hurt.
In our awkward attempts to try to understand these feelings, our relationships with others and to grow, change and to seek healing for ourselves, we are humbled and encouraged by the following Fast For Lent.
FAST FROM HURTING WORDS AND SAY KIND WORDS
FAST FROM SADNESS AND BE FILLED WITH GRATITUDE
FAST FROM ANGER AND BE FILLED WITH PATIENCE
FAST FROM PESSIMISM AND BE FILLED WITH HOPE
FAST FROM WORRIES AND TRUST IN GOD
FAST FROM COMPLAINTS AND CONTEMPLATE SIMPILCITY
FAST FROM PRESSURES AND BE PRAYFUL
FAST FROM BITTERNESS AND FILL YOUR HEART WITH JOY
FAST FROM SELFISHNESS AND BE COMPASSIONATE TO OTHERS
FAST FROM GRUDGES AND BE RECONCILED
FAST FROM WORDS AND BE SILENT SO YOU CAN LISTEN
- Pope Francis
COLLECT OF THE DAY
Bless us, O God, in this holy season, in which our hearts seek your help and healing; and so purify us by your discipline that we may grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
LISTEN TO "GOD INVITES US"
Click on the link below to listen to today's selection by John Philip Newell, sung by Fran McKendree and Friends.
FURTHER READING
Read Pope Francis' book, The Path to a Better Future. (Amazon link below)
WATCH "CASTAWAY"
Tom Hanks stars in this classic movie about wilderness and finding oneself. Click the link below for resources and commentary to guide your viewing.