Fasting for Feasting

While we are waiting for the cardinals to elect the 266th Bishop of Rome, I thought this Lenten message was worthwhile.  I found it in the bulletin of Holy Redeemer Parish, Kissimmee, Florida.  


Lent can be more than a time of fasting; it can be a season of feasting.  We can use Lent to fast from certain things and to feast on others.  Lent is a season in which we can:

Fast from judging others;  feast on the Christ dwelling in them.
Fast from emphasis on differences;  feast on the unity of life.
Fast from thoughts of illness;  feast on the healing power of God.
Fast from words that pollute;  feast on phrases that purify.
Fast from discontent;  feast on gratitude.
Fast from anger;  feast on patience.
Fast from pessimism;  feast on optimism.
Fast from worry;  feast on divine order.
Fast from complaining;  feast on appreciation.
Fast from negatives;  feast on affirmatives.
Fast from unrelenting pressure;  feast on unceasing prayer.
Fast from bitterness;  feast on forgiveness.
Fast from self-concern;  feast on compassion for others.
Fast from personal anxiety;  feast on eternal truth.
Fast from discouragements;  feast on hope.
Fast from idle gossip;  feast on purposeful silence.
Fast from problems that overwhelm;  feast on prayer that strengthens.
Fast from apparent darkness;  feast on the reality of light.