A friend of mine had been diagnosed with high cholesterol levels. When his doctor alerted him to the fact that such levels add to the risk of heart disease, he decided faithfully to obey the instructions regarding diet, exercise, managing stress levels etc. Another surprise (a pleasant one this time) awaited him when he returned to his doctor: it had taken a mere six weeks to lower his cholesterol and blood pressure readings significantly. There was an added bonus too. He had lost four kilos. The efforts to change his lifestyle were worth it.

 During Lent we have the golden opportunity to make certain lifestyle changes. Today we are at the half-way mark of our Lenten journey. It’s good to remind ourselves that prayer, fasting and almsgiving are essential parts of this journey. Just as prayer has a power to change things, so does fasting – and, as we know, fasting is not just about food. The decision to fast from something brings about the sort of serious dedication we seek during Lent.

 Jesus (like many medical practitioners) is into holistic healing. There is a grave tone to his words when he speaks about the consequences of unfruitful lifestyles. Perhaps, this week, we can give attention to our own hearts, make a few changes and target those blocked spiritual arteries that prevent us from living a fruitful life.

                                                                                                      Sr. Kathryn, pddm