“Fasting is wonderful because it tramples our sins like a dirty weed, while it cultivates and raises truth like a flower.”

-St. John Chrysostom

Last Lent, I came upon Tending the Garden of Our Hearts: Daily Lenten Meditations for Families by Elissa Bjeletich and Kristina Wenger. It became a special ritual during our 40 days to read this book together. Each week’s theme is explained along with daily scripture and Bible stories. Each chapter ends with a discussion prompt. What makes this a valuable resource is that it’s easy to incorporate it into daily life. Short Bible verses, practical ideas and thought-provoking questions draw us to pick it up! We become inspired, reflective and simply better Orthodox Christians after incorporating it into our lives. Fasting during this season allows us to focus on less material items, and give thanks for what we truly need. “Ascesis is not directed against the body but against passions, whose root is spiritual because the intellect is the first to fall to passion” (Bartholomew of Constantinople). By becoming aware of our choices and thoughts, we can train our minds to focus more on love, prayer, serving others, and less on ourselves. My husband recently commented that Lent is his favorite ‘holiday.’ It’s a time for personal reflection, to develop your own spiritual character. It’s a unique journey for each one of us as well as for our children. My hope is that you journey together with your family during this Great Lent and grow closer to one another in the process. ❤︎