"I want to say something about the moment we are living - and why it is so important to get priorities correct, now. We are like a man waking from a binge. Most of us feel a strange headache, a sense of disorientation, on account of the economic meltdown. I am not going to propose any remedy, but I can say this: If you and I get our relationship with God in order, the other things will fall into their right place.
"Whatever economic problems we have, whatever family problems, whatever parish problems - they are ultimately spiritual problems. If we give God first place, the rest will follow. Jesus speaks today about fasting, prayer and giving alms: Why? Not so other people will admire us, but to get right with God. ...
"Don't waste this crisis. God sent it to us for a reason. It is the moment to get our priorities straight. Perhaps in addition to the financial crisis you are facing a difficult family problem or some serious health issue. Do not waste the crisis. It is a call from God. Now is the acceptable time. Now is the day of salvation. Now is the moment to reorder priorities - and to give first place to God."
— Father Phil Bloom, pastor of Holy Family Parish, Seattle, from his homily for Ash Wednesday
