February 2016 E-pistle | evangelizeall.org

February 2016 E-pistle

Thoughts

“Giving up” something such as chocolate or alcohol for Lent can be spiritually fruitful if the proper motivation is present – love of God; the desire to share in Christ’s suffering; the desire to empty oneself of the material in order to be filled by God with the spiritual. But such material fasting is merely a starting point. We learn in Is 58: 5-12 that God desires more than mere self-denial. The “authentic fasting” that pleases God most is outward-facing – the highest form of fasting is acting in love and mercy toward a neighbor.
Challenge

In this Jubilee Year of Mercy, let us embrace the admonition contained in this passage of Isaiah and live the fast God desires most – let us perform works of mercy!

Release those bound unjustly: Forgive those whom we perceive have wronged us and ask forgiveness of others.

Feed the Hungry: Beyond mere giving alms, perhaps volunteer to serve at a shelter or buy a homeless person a meal (and sit with them as they eat).

Comfort the afflicted: Visit the sick or home-bound; when you have a moment, make a call to someone who is lonely or in pain (emotional or physical).

Clothe the naked: Go through your closet and give away all of the clothes you are holding onto that you don’t really need.

Shelter the homeless: Support financially or with your time a local shelter; take in a traveler.

Refrain from accusations: Avoid all forms of gossip and criticism.

Go Deeper

+ Read and meditate upon Is 58: 5-12 and Mt 9:9-13

+ Pope Francis’ Message for Lent 2016 (regarding Mercy)

+ Pope Francis: Live your faith during Lent, perform works of mercy

+ God Desires Mercy, Not Sacrifice by Fr. Cantalamasa

+ Read more about the Spiritual Works of Mercy

+ Read more about the Corporal Works of Mercy

+ Follow this wonderful weekly blog post during the year of mercy:yearofmercy.org

+ Videos: by Fr. (now Bishop) Robert Barron: What are the practices of Lent + On Lent + The Best thing You Can Do in the Year of Mercy