Give up spending so much time reading nonsense, and use some of that time reading scripture and spiritual resources.
Give up grumbling, and learn to give thanks in everything.
Give up wasting 10 to 15 minutes every day, and use that time in prayer, as you learn to live praying always.
Give up buying anything but essentials for yourself, and give that money to someone in need or do another of God’s works.
Give up judging by appearance and by worldly standards, and give yourself to God.
The Very Rev’d Canon Peter D. Haynes
Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church
Corona del Mar
I recently suggested to our parishioners something that could be described as radical: that people consider turning off their televisions during Lent. I haven’t received much feedback, which means they are still praying about this option or dismissed it all together. I must admit I hadn’t considered that March Madness falls during Lent.
I suggested turning off the television because it was something that worked for me years ago when I was considering the possibility of entering the seminary. In short, the extra time I gained allowed me to pray and discern what God’s will was for me. My life became less busy, and the Lord was able to speak to me in the quiet of my heart.
At the same time, we must remember that everyone is different and can enter into the Lenten season in their own way. One person suggested fasting from complaining. Others will take less food, giving that money to charitable causes. Prayer, fasting and almsgiving are the pillars of Lent, and each person must decide on his or her own how to best carry out the penitential season that prepares us for Easter Sunday.
Father Stephen Doktorczyk
St. Joachim Church
Costa Mesa
