And another Lent begins. I’ve got a lot of stuff to throw out of the fridge. The day outside is beautiful, but I’m thinking over what this Lent will bring. They always bring something.

Via Ortho-convert list serv, this reminder from Christopher Haas of what we heard yesterday at Forgiveness Vespers:

Gather together my scattered mind, O Lord, and purify my dry and barren heart, giving me like Peter repentance, like the Publican sighs of sorrow, and like the Harlot tears, that I may cry with a loud voice unto Thee: Save me, O God, for Thou only art compassionate and lovest mankind.

Often when I offer praise to God, I am found to be committing sin; for while I sing the hymns with my tongue, in my soul I ponder evil thoughts. But, through repentance, Christ my God, set right my tongue and soul, and have mercy upon me.