A special Lenten fast
A prayer from Latin America for use in Lent to reflect on what we can give up at this time.
Throughout the Jubilee Year we are called to renew our faith
“Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free?”
Each Lent we are asked to fast, but how much thought do we really give to our choice? Do we give up something that we won’t miss that much, or do we set ourselves a real challenge?
Do we enter into our fast in the spirit that God really asks of us? It is tempting to be grumpy and miserable, to complain to anyone who will listen. Or worse, to show off about what we have given up, hoping that others will see how virtuous we are.
In Isaiah’s reading today, we learn that the type of fast that actually pleases God is one that brings about transformation and an end to oppression. Not just for ourselves, but for everyone.
Throughout Lent and throughout this Jubilee Year, we are called to renew our faith and commit to building a fairer society.
May our Lenten fast this year bring about a transformation in our hearts and in our world, so that all people may live free from poverty and oppression.
Prayer
Loving God, may our fast always be pleasing to you. Inspire us to play our part in bringing about liberty to all who are oppressed. Amen.
Act
Pray with us today, using this special prayer from Latin America, which explores the type of fast we could undertake.