A Time of Bright Sadness

In the Orthodox liturgy, Lent is referred to as "a time of bright sadness", a paradoxical phrase, yet one containing the truth that as we make our sacrifices and efforts to pray more and give alms, we are not alone. A community of believers is on board with us. "In unity there is strength," goes the adage, and this strength enables us to pursue our Lenten goals with a smile. If we were all alone, it might not be so cheery, but when I see Joe and Mary doing something obviously special for Lent, then I am encouraged. Daily Mass attendance is up, confessions on Wednesday evenings are well attended. We are trying, and that gives us a good feeling, a bright spirit. Even our fasting, which Jesus admonished, should not be gloomy and grim. We are not "working out" in a spiritual Latitude, but are willingly and joyfully fasting out of love. As parents know no limits in the care of their children because their love drives them to the limits, so too, when we fast for love, our efforts are limitless and filled with a deep abiding joy. Msgr. Charles M. Murphy has recenlty published a book on fasting, THE SPIRITUALITY OF FASTING, which advocates a return to this ancient practice in its true and powerful sense, tied in with humility and the need for conversion from sin and selfishness to love of God and neighbor. It is a movement forward, not a deprivation that puts us in reverse. This 105 page volume can be ordered at LF Book Orders, 1564 Fencorp Drive, Fenton, MO 603026-2942. It's not too late for it to help us this Lent and beyond.
Bro. Rene