Lenten Message for Ash Wednesday

Dear Friends,

Ash Wednesday is upon us!  As many of us lately are saying: time is becoming irrelevant.  Just go with the flow!  Well, we are flowing into Lent next week.  In some ways this whole 2023 feels so full of tragedy.  We grieve as we see so much cruelty, and struggle in countries everywhere.  If we ever need a Lenten season it seems now is the time.  Time for each of us to reflect on the mercy of God for all people. Time to pray that God’s ways reign and bless all people, especially those who are suffering all around the world.

Isaiah cries out:  “Is not this the fast I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness…to let the oppressed go free…to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house…? Then shall your light break forth like the dawn and your healing shall spring up rapidly…then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry and he will say, Here I am.”

Merciful God, create in us a new heart.  Guide us into your heart of mercy that being touched by your merciful love we may learn what that means for our world. As we listen to your Word daily through this Lenten season speak to us what you need us to hear and give us the courage to be your faithful disciples.  Amen.

Sisters of the Living Word Leadership Team