early birds,
For in these forty days
you lead us into the desert of repentance
that through a pilgrimage of prayer and discipline
we may grow in grace
and learn to be your people once again.
Through fasting, prayer and acts of service
you bring us back to your generous heart.
Through study of your holy word
you open our eyes to your presence in the world
and free our hands to welcome others
into the radiant splendour of your love
- The Eucharistic Prayer
The sacrifice of God is a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart, O God,
you will not despise. Psalm 51.18