Lent began yesterday, but, in truth, this past year has been a Lent for me, providing a prolonged period of examination that has allowed me to discern the difference between what is important and what I thought was important. It has also made me aware of the incalculable blessings I enjoy, most for which I hold little responsibility in creating. In this season where everyone has been forced to pare down, I also have become intimately aware of those for whom even daily life is difficult. The year of pandemic has lifted a veil off the great distance between those who can and those who can’t, those who have and those who do not have, and I have been reminded daily of our responsibility as Christians to serve those in need.
Lent began yesterday, but, in truth, this past year has been a Lent for me, providing a prolonged period of examination that has allowed me to discern the difference between what is important and what I thought was important. It has also made me aware of the incalculable blessings I enjoy, most for which I hold little responsibility in creating. In this season where everyone has been forced to pare down, I also have become intimately aware of those for whom even daily life is difficult. The year of pandemic has lifted a veil off the great distance between those who can and those who can’t, those who have and those who do not have, and I have been reminded daily of our responsibility as Christians to serve those in need. Next Friday, 26 February, Bethesda-by-the-Sea will host the 8th Annual Palm Beach Empty Bowls. And while this year’s event may look a little different because of pandemic precautions (cold soups available in microwaveable containers for pickup or large order delivery, no dining on site), the event is a crucial component in raising funds for the Palm Beach County Food Bank, which feeds over 200,000 people every month in Palm Beach County.
Food insecurity is a reality for so many in our larger community, and I invite us, as Lent begins, to be aware of our many, many blessings and open our eyes to see, even more clearly, those around us who have so much less. Join us next Friday, whether with an order or with a donation, for Palm Beach Empty Bowls and support the work of the Palm Beach County Food Bank in feeding the hungry right next door.
Fr. Burl+
Associate for Christian Education, Pastoral Care, and Outreach
To order from or donate to Palm Beach Empty Bowls CLICK HERE