Here is a Video and a Reflection to help you on your journey this Lent..
For more video's reflections, and resources visit NorwichDiocese.org/Lent
Lenten Reflection: Week Four
“Own It: Service”
“You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.”
(Galatians 5:13)
We cannot call ourselves Christians if we do not try to live out the commandment given to us by Jesus himself, to love one another, each and every day of our lives. But more often times than not we cannot get past the question: How can I love someone I do not know or how can I love someone I do not like? The answer to that question is easy – to love is to serve!
A lot of people share the misconception that being “called” by God is something only missionaries, priests, nuns, monks, brothers, and other church leaders experience. But the Bible reminds us everyone is called to serve God by serving others.
The roadblock to serving others for most of us is selfishness. The number one reason we don’t serve others is that we’re preoccupied with our own priorities, dreams, and pleasures. Only a small number of people use their lives to serve others, even though that is the example we were given by Jesus.
We cannot wait for the circumstances of our lives to be perfect, that will never happen. Now is the time to make some changes. Now is the time to make a commitment to share your gifts and talents with others. Now is the time to make someone else’s life better. Now is the time to emulate Jesus’ example – to love is to serve.
We all need to remember this week that penance is meant for our good. When we do penance (categorized as prayer, fasting, and almsgiving) we open ourselves up to make room for more of God’s unconditional love and mercy. That makes for an amazing week!
This Lent, OWN YOUR FAITH!
This Lenten Season know that you are in our prayers in a special way!
If we can be of any assistance to you during these difficult times, please feel free to call us, 860-848-2237, ext. 203, 305, 304, 312.
God’s blessings and health, Andrea, Liza, Marianne & Mary-Jo