Friday, March 6, 2009

Homily – March 6, 2009 – First Week of Lent - Friday

Our readings on this day of Lent are for a newness of heart and spirit: a newness based on wholehearted commitment to right thought and just action. Jesus tells his disciples that their sense of what is right must surpasses that of the Scribes and Pharisees: or they will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Minimal observance of some laws is not the same as totally buying into the spirit behind the laws: which are actually summarized in a new law: of loving service to our neighbor – the people we see every day – and people far from us as well.

What was important for Jesus is that we all get along as family – as brothers and sisters – who really care about each other. And when things are not right between us – it is important to make things right – before expecting our prayers to God to be heard and answered. This is not an unreasonable demand.

The first reading from the Prophet Ezekiel tells us that God certainly does not derive any pleasure from the death of the wicked person! He would much rather have a person who is content doing that which is unvirtuous turn and begin to do what is truly virtuous, good, right and holy! And when the unvirtuous turn in this way to God: God is more than happy to forgive their iniquities and restore them to life in the family!

On this day of Lent, let us cast away from us all the crimes we have committed, and make for ourselves a new heart and a new spirit.

Today, if you hear the voice of the Lord, harden not your hearts.

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