To keep a True Lent
Is this a Fast, to keep
The larder lean?
And clean
From fat of veals and sheep?
Is it to quit the dish
Of flesh, yet still
To fill
The platter high with fish?
Is it to fast an hour,
Or ragg’d to go,
Or show
A down-cast look and sour?
No; ‘tis a Fast to dole
Thy sheaf of wheat
And meat
Unto the hungry soul.
It is to fast from strife
And old debate,
And hate;
To circumcise thy life.
To show a heart grief-rent;
To starve thy sin,
Not bin;
And that’s to keep thy Lent.
by Robert Herrick
The Call
Come, my Way, my Truth, my life;
Such a Way, as gives us breath;
Such a Truth, as ends all strife;
Such a Life, as killeth death.
Come, my Light, my Feast, my Strength:
Such a Light, as shows a feast:
Such a Feast, as mends in length:
Such a Strength, as makes his guest.
Come, my Joy, my Love, my Heart:
Such a Joy, as none can part:
Such a Heart, as joys in Love
by George Herbert
Lenten Reflection Video
Want to know more about why we fast and pray during Lent?
Then watch this video, Lenten Reflection: Why Do We Pray, Fast & Give Alms? by Dr Brant Pitre and Catholic Productions.