Saturday, February 20, 2016

Saturday of the First Week
Reflection
In today’s readings, Jesus emphasizes how easy it is to love those who already love us. He, then, tells us that’s not enough. We are challenged with a new radical love—to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. As I reflect on this message of radical love, I’m left with more self-reflective questions than answers. Is my love truly unconditional and radical enough to have people persecuting me? Do I forgive those who hurt me? In the first reading, Moses calls us to a commitment to love God with all our heart and all our soul. The combination of these readings today is, to me, a challenge in committing to radical love with all our heart and soul this Lenten season. For me, I believe this comes to fruition by seeing Christ in each person—even that rude driver who cut me off this morning. Our challenge is more than being nice to others; it’s intentionally honoring the dignity of all those around us. With this challenge, how will I radically pour my soul into the world, as Christ pours His soul into us?
 
Prayer
Heavenly Father, this Lenten season, be my eyes to see the dignity of others, be my heart in loving others, and be my hands in serving others. Allow me to serve with the radical love that You call me to.

Anna Boesch, Assistant Director of the M.O.V.E. Office
 

Scripture
First Reading: Deuteronomy 26:16-19
Psalm 119:1-2, 4-5, 7-8
Gospel: Matthew 5:43-48

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website
 
 
 
 

 

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