By St. Theophan the Recluse
“Lent has come, O mother of chastity.” What was the time before this day? A time of fornication. The soul fornicated with all that struck its eye as pleasant — both with people and with things: more fully, with sinful passions. Everyone has his passion which he pleases in all he does. It is time to put an end to this. May each of you comprehend your Delilah, who binds you and hands you over to evil enemies, and abandon her. Then you will be given more than Samson: not only shall your hair grow, but so also shall good thoughts; and not only shall your strength return, but so also your strength of will. Your eyes shall also open, your mind shall have sight and it shall see the Lord, yourself, and everything around you in the proper light. This is the favorable time! This is the day of salvation!