Repairer of the Breach

Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice,to undo the thongs of the yoke,

to let the oppressed go free,and to break every yoke?...you shall be called the repairer of the breach.

Isaiah 58. 1 - 12

In this passage appointed for Ash Wednesday, the prophet Isaiah guides us clearly to Lenten Disciplines that have nothing to do with giving up coffee or chocolate or wine. Just as Pope Francis' directions for fasting for a Holy Lent say, what we must give up or take on are the thoughts, behaviors and actions that will repair the breach we have created in our world.

As I reflect on Pope Francis' list, I am pinpointing the behaviors from which to fast and the actions I need to take on. A little meditation book I am reading called Courage to Change has a good reminder for today that might help:

"This day is a beautiful room that's never been seen before. Let me cherish the seconds, minutes, and hours I spend here. Help me to think before I speak and pray before I act..."

and I would add one breath, one step, one prayer at a time!

Where are the breaches in your world that your Lenten fast will help to repair?