Daily Lenten Reflections

Friday, February 23, 2024

Friday of the First Week

Reflection

Our readings today focus on the importance of embracing a virtuous life, tending to our intentions and behavior, and the persistent opportunities for redemption offered by God. Those who follow a virtuous way of life are prompted not to break faith with the Lord. But those who have transgressed against God or man are reassured that if we turn our hearts to God and mend our ways, it is never too late to be saved by the Lord. We are reminded to trust the word of God.

There is also a focus on justice in the readings. We may not always understand God’s justice especially in regard to reformed sinners. Through our belief in the ultimate kindness of God and our faithful striving to live a virtuous life, we are assured of salvation.

Jesus sets a high standard for behavior when he calls his us to surpass the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees. Meeting this standard begins by becoming aware of our behavior and where we fall short of our aspirations. Matthew encourages us first to recognize our human limitations, then to name them, and most importantly, to take actions to reconcile with our brothers. In following this practice, we may continue in a virtuous way of life.

Prayer

Lord, I am a sinner in need of your understanding love and forgiveness. Help me to be humble, to recognize my human limitations, and to trust in your redemptive promise. Amen.

John Devlin
Professor of Fine Arts, Theatre

Scripture
First Reading: Ezekiel 18:21-28
Psalm 130:1-8
Gospel: Matthew 5:20-26

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website

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Mission of Edmundite Campus Ministry

The Mission of Edmundite Campus Ministry at Saint Michael’s College is to share the Good News of the Gospel with the College community by facilitating encounter with Jesus Christ. We do this through the celebration of the Church’s Liturgy, in programs promoting knowledge of the Catholic faith, by developing ecumenical and interreligious relationships, and providing retreats and other opportunities for personal spiritual growth.

The Catholic and Edmundite tradition upon which the College was founded is grounded in the conviction that all women and men are created in the image and likeness of God providing a special dignity unique to each person. Such dignity requires human life to be respected in all of its stages recognizing that we are all children of God.

Therefore, in its pursuit of furthering the Reign of God, the Edmundite Campus Ministry staff seeks to interact with and support every member of the College community in their search for Truth, contributing to the “enhancement of the human person and to the advancement of human culture in light of the Catholic faith.”