Friday, February 15, 2013

Friday after Ash Wednesday - 2013


Scripture:
"Is this not the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of wickedness,
to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free,
and that you break every yoke?
Is it not to share your bread with the hungry,
and that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out;
when you see the naked, that you cover him..." Isaiah 58:6, 7

Reflection:
Prayer, fasting and almsgiving, though emphasized and focused upon more during the Lenten season, should be part of the normal Christian experience. During Lent some of us "give up" certain things: meat, chocolate, TV, smoking, alcohol and any number of other things. Some do it out of some sense of obligation, while others, out of a sincere heart, truly seek to use this time to draw closer to God. Remember: what you do for Lent is far less important that why you do it. As you fast in some way this Lenten season, may God become more real to you and may your faith become more sure. May you see in yourself and others, bonds broken, burdens lifted and the oppressed set free.

Prayer:
Lord God, we commit this Lenten season to you. May our motives be pure and sincere. Use us in some way to meet the needs of others during this time. As we fast in some way and experience certain levels of hunger, may our greatest hunger be to know you more. In your mercy, grant that the more we know you, the more we see those bonds broken, burdens lifted and the oppressed set free. For your glory. Amen.

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