Lent will begin on February 18th this year. Hunger and thirst are spread all over the world. Our fasting, in its various forms, is a small gesture of solidarity with the poor, and we can offer it as such, in union with Jesus.
We also have an opportunity to remember the "hunger and thirst" of our hearts as we travel through the journey of this life. None of us are free of this tremendous need, which we try to repress, but which inevitably rises up and penetrates our awareness. Sometimes it strikes us as a deep sorrow, a sense of powerlessness, desperation, and failure. But if we turn to the Lord, our hunger and thirst are transformed into prayer, in hope that He will fill us. Indeed, He will pour out His mercy on us in greater abundance.
And we will learn to be merciful to one another.
