Friday after Ash Wednesday

Reflection

I think it’s easy to get lost in the fasting and the penance of Lent. And I think the readings for today, only three days into the season of Lent, we get an important reminder to look beyond that. Yes there is a sense of self-sacrifice and denial this season. But it’s important to look at how we do that with a critical eye. Maybe instead of giving up soda, maybe try to sacrifice some time to work for the needs of the community. The readings are a call to feel God’s love and presence in our lives, and to make that love known and felt in others. Isaiah gives us some pretty clear examples here. He mentions social justice, food insecurity, and poverty; issues just as relevant to us as they are to him. And Jesus reminds us that God is with us and to celebrate!

It’s important we don’t lose sight of the events we are preparing for in Holy Week and Easter. It’s a tragic part of our faith. But it’s important not to lose sight of why it is so tragic: the suffering of Jesus who loved (and loves!) us so unconditionally.

Prayer

God, You are the ultimate form of love. Help us to feel and channel that love, so that others can feel loved as well.

Rob Dittus, ’19

Scripture
First Reading: Isaiah 58:1-9a
Psalm 51:3-6a, 18-19
Gospel: Matthew 9:14-15

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website