+ Our readings on this day of Lent are actually about the power of words and deeds. In the first reading from the Prophet Hosea we hear in beautiful language how the Prophet encourages the wayward people of God to return to their God and to take with them words. They are to return and simply say: Forgive all iniquity and receive what is good, that we may render fitting sacrifice to you, O God; we will no longer say 'Our god' to the works of our hands; for you are God, you are supreme upon the earth. And God for his part will say: I will heal their defection; I will love them freely, for my wrath is turned away from them. I will be like the dew for Israel; he shall blossom like the lily. What beautiful imagery we have here that centers itself on words: the words of the people, and the words of their God.
In the Gospel passage we also consider words, but they are also linked very closely not so much with sacrifice this time, but with action, loving action. The one commandment is described as having two parts, three sections: to love God with all ones being, and to love others, as one loves oneself. Those who contemplate about, ruminate on and put this commandment into practice is not far from the Kingdom of God. Lent is the quiet time of the year when we can do just that: realize how much love we owe God, one another and ourselves; realize how much, if we love God, he has given us a way to prove it: by loving others as we love ourselves.
All is gift! Of ourselves we are nothing! All comes from God! All comes from love! Therefore to enter into the dynamic of loving is a way to enter deeply into God himself! May we enter in today and have a godly, holy day of Lent!
I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.
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