REFLECT:
The prophet Joel has challenging words for us!

This, rather, is the fasting that I wish:
            releasing those bound unjustly,
            untying the thongs of the yoke;
Setting free the oppressed
            breaking every yoke;
Sharing your bread with the hungry,
            sheltering the oppressed and the homeless;
Clothing the naked when you see them,
            and not turning your back on your own.
Then your light shall break forth like the dawn....

PRAY:
“Merciful Father, help me to translate my sacrifices to be works of charity for my suffering brothers and sisters.”

ACT:
Materials for “Operation Rice Bowl” are available at church.  This is a way to share with the poorest of the poor in the Third World.