We had a visiting priest at St. Eugene last weekend, and his emphasis was for all of us to “just do something” when we left Mass. The concept of an abundant harvest with not enough laborers must have been on his heart and mind. He wanted us to volunteer in any way possible because we all have some free time. He put forth a scenario for us to consider. When we reach our end of days, and we arrive at the Pearly Gates, if we were asked why we did not do more to help our fellow humans, he wanted us to be sure that our excuse was not “I was too busy.” We should show some effort, and show that we tried our best, even for a few hours a month.
Prayer, Almsgiving, and Fasting
Today is the first Friday of Lent, and our first opportunity to remember to not eat meat on Fridays. I like to eat fish and seafood, so abstaining from meat on Fridays is not a sacrifice for me. I just need to remember to not eat meat on Fridays! I am not into fasting, although I have done serious but short fasts before. I see the power of fasts, with health and spiritual benefits pouring from them. Generally, I give up my beloved coffee for Lent, as I avoid this deliciously invigorating beverage for 40 days. Prayer, almsgiving, and fasting are three legs of the Lenten stool, and all need to be considered to support our Lenten Journey. Fasting is the theme of the readings today.
The first reading today is from Isaiah and has to do with fasting to get closer to God. However, he describes how fasting can lead to quarreling, fighting, moping around, and often not achieving the desired effect. There is a phenomenon called being “Hangry.” This means that when we are fasting or hungry, we can become angry. This is not the intent of fasting. We should become better during fasting, not worse.
Alternatives
As an alternative to fasts, Isaiah tells us to “just do something.” He lists Corporal Works of Mercy that can be done to show our love of God. We can set our pride aside, and be humble and contrite, and that also shows our love of God. Helping provide food, shelter and clothing to the poor are perfect examples of doing something that matters. Fasting can still be part of your Lenten Journey but let us not forget those in need.
One of our core values at GVM is to put our faith into action. The readings of today, and the words of a visiting priest, remind us to do those actions, often called Corporal Works of Mercy. Prayer, almsgiving, and fasting are the traditional parts of Lent, and should be respected. Additionally, let us remember to help our fellow humans this Lenten season, and beyond. Let us put our personal pride aside and help those who are in far worse situations than ourselves. Let us prepare for the interview at the Pearly Gate, so we can show that our love of God helped us love our fellow humans. Just do something!
