Positive Lenten Promises

From the Desk of Father David

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

              Two weeks ago, I asked you to remove anything that blocks you relationship with Jesus and to make your Lenten promises positive. For example, I will talk about more positive issues instead of always complaining.   The word Lent means Spring.  When we are trying to change an attitude or a bad habit we need to focus on the good attitude or habit that will replace the bad one.  When we do this, we are really focusing on Jesus, who is the source of strength that we need to change.  Following is a poem to help you see the positive side of Lent.

“Fasting and Feasting”

William A. Ward

Lent is more than a time of fasting,

it can also be a joyous season of feasting.

Lent is a time to fast from certain things

and to feast on others

It is a season in which we can decide to: 

Fast from judging on others;

Feast on the Christ dwelling 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 throes of illness;

Feast on the healing power of God.

Fast from words that pollute; Feast on phrases that purify.

Fast from discontent; Feast on gratitude.

Fast from anger; Feast on patience.

Fast form pessimism; Feast on optimism.

Fast from worry; Feast on Divine order.

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 nonresistance.

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 verities that uplift.

Fast from thoughts that weaken;

Feast on promises that inspire.

Fast from idle gossip; Feast on purposeful silence.

Fast from problems that overwhelm;

Feast on prayer that strengthens.

Lord Jesus, please help us make this Lent a springtime of spiritual growth.  Also, help us to focus on You so that this Lent we will see all the beautiful items of life to feast on and all that we need to fast from, so Your Kingdom will grow in our midst and You will be glorified. Amen

In joy,

Fr. David