in prayer and ritual, but in transformed priorities and a renewed

sense of responsibility.

Great Lent calls us into a threefold movement of faith. We are

called inward through meditation and repentance, outward

through reconciliation and responsibility toward others, and upward through communion with

God through relationship, Scripture, and worship. This movement invites us to pair self exami-

nation with daily silence, sincerity in restoring broken relationships, and faithfulness in remem-

bering prayer.

The prophet Isaiah teaches us that true fasting is not only about self control, but about restoring

right relationships with God and with one another. Fasting helps us recognize hunger, both our

own and the hunger of those around us, and calls us to respond with love. What we save by

eating less or giving up comforts is meant to be shared, even materially, with those in need. In

this way, fasting becomes a practical expression of faith and love for our neighbor. At the end of

the fast, we are not called to indulge ourselves in what we have abstained from, but to remember

those who are less fortunate and to share generously with them.

I encourage all of us to make the message of Lent visible through action. Use the money saved

from even one meal to practice generosity. Consider supporting a local charity, helping someone

in need, or pooling resources for a group effort that serves the wider community. Look around

reminders, such as notes placed in visible areas, can also help keep your spiritual focus steady.

Through repentance, reconciliation, and generosity, we continue to grow into who we are be-

coming in Christ.

Let us hold onto this Lenten season and commit ourselves to acts of mercy, generosity, and

reconciliation, so that we may continue to be transformed as we move toward the remembrance

Prayerfully,

JVarghese Achen