A friend in Syracuse, Central New York, sent a photo today of her property buried under snow-drifts, her husband busy with the shovel. I felt a tad guilty, having reveled at first light on my way to the gym to my red bud in full display and to the scent of orange blossoms wafting over my patio.
The observation of Lent in such a pleasant clime is a reminder that Lent isn’t particularly gloomy, and that the taking on of duties and fresh ways of meeting God’s world with passion and vigor is perhaps more important than anything we might forgo for a season.
Recently, friends shared that they are redoubling their philanthropy for Lent…and not just for the 40 days. Their sense of gratitude for so many blessings prompts them to consider how they might offer fervant thanks…”When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required” (Luke 12:48).
Philanthropy is the least of our giving. There are folk all around us for whom life can be a struggle, and for whom warmth, welcome, attentive listening and genuine care make a difference. The practice of simple kindness, if not already ingrained, is a good-enough Lenten discipline.
Social science tells us that it takes 40 days to break a bad habit, and also that it takes 40 days to acquire new patterns, validating what the Church has taught for quite a long while now.
As you ground your Lenten progress in prayer and gratitude, may the Holy Spirit lead you forward to know and feel your blessings, and to make a good return.
Lenten Grace and Restoration,
GFW+
Verger Tony Faught announces the Verger’s Lunch, 12:30pm March 19th at Cheesecake Factory, 2 W. Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena.
The appointed lessons for March 19th, 2017, the Third Sunday in Lent, may be found HERE.
The Church of Our Saviour in San Gabriel is offering a lecture by Dr. Steve Hindle, 7:30pm March 16th entitled “Anglicanism Across The Seas: An Englishman’s View.” This lecture is a part of the 150th anniversary celebrations at Church of Our Saviour, 535 W. Roses Road in San Gabriel. A $20 contribution is suggested.
Men’s Breakfast 6:30am Tuesday March 21st at Hal Hennacy’s!
Read “The Lead” from Episcopal Café HERE
The recent edition of Episcopal News from the Diocese of L.A. may be found HERE, and articles from the national Episcopal News Service HERE
