Saturday of the First Week of Lent - March 15

Deuteronomy 26:16-19 Matthew 5:43-48

What a challenge we are given this first week of Lent! When I reflect on these readings and look beneath the surface, they speak to me as a reminder that our lives should be a reflection of God. As Catholics, we are Children of God, marked by our baptism, and strengthened by the sacraments, especially the Eucharist. We are called to go out and live our lives as an expression of love, reverence, and gratitude, reflecting God’s holiness and blessings into the world. Just as we want our children, or in my case students, to be a reflection of what we have taught and given them.

Matthew's Gospel tells us to love not only neighbors but enemies. In a society that seems to be divided by so many factors: religion, politics, race, economics, opinions, gender, and lifestyle, we are called to love and prayer. How amazing is that! To not waste our energy on hatred, insults, revenge, or exclusion, just love.

It is not easy. Love is an ACTIVE choice to seek the well-being of others. Love is a decision to serve others, to wish them well, and to pray for their good, even if they wish us harm. Jesus, our teacher, shows us love through his example on the cross. Not only his physical sacrifice, the greatest act of love, but also in prayer for the ones that put him to death. Scripture and the church teach us that prayer is essential for reconciliation and forgiveness. The ultimate model is Jesus' example of praying for and forgiving his enemies. We are not called to be sinless but to be the reflection of God’s perfection. His Love is one of: respect, service, charity, mercy, prayer, and forgiveness that is given freely to ALL
people. We are called to reflect that perfect love.

Q: Who is one person I will intentionally pray for their well-being today? Who is one person I need to forgive, or ask forgiveness from?

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