Chaplains Page
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Even as the days grow
longer we are reminded that our earthly days grow shorter. Ash Wednesday
literally marks the finitude of our life--the truth that we are but ashes and
dust strikes square between the eyes. In the Lenten days
that follow we seek to make the most of our limited time.The ancient
disciplines of the season: fasting, prayer, and works of mercy are tools God
has given us for our daily struggle against the forces of evil. I was struck
by the allusion to the badge we carry in this meditation on Lent written by
Pope Benedict XIV--that’s right, XIV, not XVI--in 1741: “The observance of
Lent is the very badge of the Christian warfare. By it we prove ourselves not
to be enemies of the cross of Christ. By it we avert the scourges of divine
justice. By it we gain strength against the princes of darkness, for it
shields us with heavenly help. Should mankind grow remiss in their observance
of Lent, it would be a detriment to God's glory...” Please pray with me: Lord God, our
strength, the battle of good and evil rages around and within us, and our
ancient foe still tempts us with his deceits and
empty promises. Keep us steadfast in
your word, and, when we fall, raise us again and restore us, through your
Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Chaplain Tom |
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