- Thu Feb 26, 2015 1:23 pm
#219268
Christians have observed a penitential season in preparation for Easter since the early centuries of the Church. In our own time, three main religious practices are emphasized during Lent - prayer, fasting, and almsgiving (giving to the needy).
By prayer we open our hearts to our Father so we can hear his Word and be transformed by his Spirit.
By fasting we empty ourselves of bodily pleasures so we can feel a hunger for God's love.
By almsgiving we detach ourselves from worldly things so we can set our hearts on the kingdom of heaven.
Let us pray;
Spare your people, Lord. Do not treat us as our sins deserve, but look upon us kindly and show mercy to us.
+ Open our hearts that we may turn from sin and seek your mercy and forgiveness.
+ Open our eyes that we may see and acknowledge the wrongs we have done.
+ Open our hands that we may reach out to our brothers and sisters in justice and peace.
Amen.
By prayer we open our hearts to our Father so we can hear his Word and be transformed by his Spirit.
By fasting we empty ourselves of bodily pleasures so we can feel a hunger for God's love.
By almsgiving we detach ourselves from worldly things so we can set our hearts on the kingdom of heaven.
Let us pray;
Spare your people, Lord. Do not treat us as our sins deserve, but look upon us kindly and show mercy to us.
+ Open our hearts that we may turn from sin and seek your mercy and forgiveness.
+ Open our eyes that we may see and acknowledge the wrongs we have done.
+ Open our hands that we may reach out to our brothers and sisters in justice and peace.
Amen.
Call on the angels! Especially this day. Call them with kindness! Send them before you in every situation and watch your circumstances improve and problems resolve in ways you could not have imagined.