lent this year...

Had an awesome time with our wider community over pancakes yesterday. Much fun, and great to pray for Michael who's moving up north this weekend too.

So, today, it's ash wednesday today. A day that launches us into the penitential season of lent. I had an email this morning, and with it came this poem on fasting from William Arther Ward. I liked it a lot, but edited some of the words a little (not sure if thats allowed, sorry!), and wanted to share it here.

Also, I'm well excited about 24-7 Prayer's season of Lent Podcasts, which you can find by clicking 'here'or the picture below. Loved the trailer, and todays video. Immense.

Ok...so back to the poem. 

Fast from judging others; feast on grace that reconciles.
Fast from divisions; feast on unity.
Fast from apparent darkness; feast on the light.
Fast from thoughts of illness; feast on the healing power of God.

Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude.
Fast from anger; feast on patience.
Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism.
Fast from worry; feast on deep faith.

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 peace.

Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness.
Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others.
Fast from discouragements; feast on hope.
Fast from lethargy; feast on enthusiasm.

Fast from damaging thoughts; feast on Christ who inspires.
Fast from shadows of sorrow; feast on the light of Christ’s presence.
Fast from idle gossip; feast on Christ’s word.
Fast from problems that overwhelm; feast on Christ who sustains