15 February 2008

Make Lent a Reality

Make the present Lent a reality; not looking upon it merely as a recognized ordinance, which comes before you in dry and lifeless form, when public opinion makes a sort of compromise with the world, and is content that some of the wilder enjoyments should be suspended for a certain number of weeks, whilst others less condemned, but perhaps equally frivolous, are allowed in their stead. But make it a real time of reckoning with God, and of forwarding the work of your own salvation.
Bishop Ashton Oxenden of Montreal
& Metropolitan of Canada (Anglican)
from "Thoughts for Lent" 1873
Prayer
We beseech Thee, O Lord, that our earnest devotion may become fruitful through Thy grace; for then shall our fast be profitable to us, if it is well-pleasing to thy loving-kindness; through Jesus Christ our lord. Amen.

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