Tuesday February 16th: True Yeast
February 15, 2021
Thursday February 18th: Grace through Suffering
February 15, 2021

Wednesday February 17th: ‘Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving’

‘Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving’

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

Today, Ash Wednesday, signals that time when the Church invites us to look honestly at ourselves and examine our relationship with God. We begin a very personal journey in the company of Jesus with sign posts of prayer, fasting and almsgiving to help us on our journey.

Today’s Gospel warns us about our motives; at all cost we are to avoid attention to self, for “The Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you.” It calls us to deepen our relationship with others and ultimately with God. It reminds us that prayer, fasting and almsgiving are ways to God, for they enrich the lives of others.

It challenges me to regain control of my life, especially in areas that hurt other people.
I thank God for Jesus and the saints whose lives we model; they teach us that life is about building relationships and being of service to others.

Lord, as we pray, fast and give more to others, help us to turn away from ourselves and see the wider picture which includes all peoples.