What am I giving for Lent?(March 1 2020) WHAT AM I GIVING FOR LENT?
This is the fasting that I wish: releasing those bound unjustly,
untying the thongs of the yoke; setting free the oppressed, breaking every yoke; sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own. Isaiah 58: 6, 7 
No. The title isn’t a typo. It’s a reminder that, for Catholics Lent is more than just giving up something. There’s nothing wrong with the ‘give ups’, of course. Not indulging in something that gives me pleasure can remind me that Jesus gave so much more for me and for all humankind. But it seems rather childish to give up sweets for 40 days and then binge on Easter candy and desserts.Perhaps I need to focus more on the positive. What can I give to God for all God has given to me? I live in a land of plenty, with a comfortable lifestyle. Nothing is denied to me and I seldom deny myself very much. But what do I do? That was the question asked of Blessed Frederic and his companions by their non-believing fellow students. Paraphrasing they stated, ‘You Catholics talk a lot, but what do you actually do? Show us and perhaps we will believe.’ Also important is that, if I fail to do something today, my Lent isn’t a failure. Jesus told his followers to Take up your cross daily and follow me. (Luke 9:23) I can always begin again. There’s an old saying: Actions speak louder than words. I think I will take it for my Lenten motto this year. What can I do? Here are ten suggestions. How many more can you think of?
Denise |
