+Dear Saint David Parishioners,
Isn’t it hard to believe that we are nearing the half-way mark of Lent? This is a good day to assess how we are doing during this season of renewal. We can check ourselves by examining how we are practicing the three hallmarks of this special time: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, and ask:
Prayer
Have I carved out some extra time to let God speak with me by participating in the sacraments, reading scripture, or viewing religious content on the Internet or TV?
Fasting
Have I given up something, such as food or some other material thing, to demonstrate my dependence on God? Some authors suggest fasting from negativity and gossip in order to grow in charity.
Almsgiving
If I have fasted from treats during Lent or from some other type of entertainment, or from unnecessary shopping, then the money saved could be donated to those in need.
In our reading for this Third Sunday of Lent, Jesus got justifiably angry with the moneychangers, mainly because they were making money and material things their main priority in life rather than God. The challenge then at this point in Lent is to recognize the truly important priorities in life in order to achieve authentic JOY — putting Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself last. Any other arrangement will and does not provide lasting joy.
God reminded the people of Israel and us: “I, the Lord, am your God… you shall not have other gods besides me.” We give praise and thanks because “God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him might have eternal life” (John 3:16). May zeal for God’s house consume us as we embark on the remaining weeks of renewal for our soul and lives!
In Mary’s Immaculate Heart, I am,
Sister Mary
Some Lenten resources can be found at:
https://www.loyolapress.com/catholic-resources/liturgical-year/lent/
https://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Lent/