I have just heard of some Biblically based and nourishing recommendations for Lent

Joel 2 : 12 and 13

Do you want to fast this Lent ? Words from Pope Francis

Fast from hurting words and say kind words

Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude

Fast from anger and be filled with patience

Fast from pessimism and be filed with hope

Fast from worries and have trust in God

Fast from complaints and contemplate simplicity

Fast from pressures and be prayerful

Fast from bitterness and fill your hearts with joy

Fast from selfishness and be compassionate to others

Fast from grudges and be reconciled

Fast from words and be silent so you can listen.

These leave me wondering not only how this would change the life of an individual – but even more, how they would change the witness of the church in the world?!  We would be more Christlike, a truer witness.