The Obligation of Lent

Today’s Reflection

What are the Christian obligations of those who are poor? Do we want to take on these obligations? How do our material possessions influence our closeness—or distance from—God?

—Elizabeth Mae Magill, When Did We See You? A Lenten Exploration of Poverty and Wealth(Upper Room Books, 2026)

Today’s Question

How can you solidarity with the poor this Lent? How might the spiritual practices of fasting and asceticism bring you closer to God? Join the conversation.

Today’s Scripture

Is not this the fast that I choose:to loose the bonds of injustice,to undo the straps of the yoke,to let the oppressed go free,and to break every yoke?

—Isaiah 58:6 (NRSVUE)

Prayer for the Week

God, as I fast this Lent, teach me to see you in the faces of the least of these. Draw close to me so I will give generously to the poor, stranger, sick, and imprisoned. Amen.