Renew Me Completely, O Lord

What Are You Giving Up for Lent?

America (Magazine) asked readers on social media what they planned to give up or take on this year.

How about this: I’m not giving up. In spite of everything, I’m not giving up. Letitia Roddy

Matthew

Sermon on the Mount

Almsgiving, Prayer and Fasting

We usually us a different order

Fasting, Prayer, Almsgiving

Matthew (Jesus?) gives us

Almsgiving, Prayer and Fasting

Intensity

Each of today’s readings gives us a different angle

But Overall: Intensity

Joel

Return to the Lord: Return, Return, Return!

Rend you hearts, not your garments!

God relents (holds back) his punishment

Psalm 51

Have mercy, Lord!

Thoroughly wash me!

I know my transgressions!

2 Corinthians

God is appealing through us!

We implore you

Be reconciled to God!

We appeal…

Now is the time, the acceptable day!

Conclusion

With all of this, my message today is simple:

Remember this order: Almsgiving, Prayer, Fasting.

Return to God, whatever that looks like for you.

God is merciful, quick to forgive; he is the father who knows what you need before you even ask.

Lastly, Remember Letitia Roddy; she’s not giving up!

I hope you won’t, either.