Sanatio in radice

Greetings on this the Tuesday of the First Week of Lent
Readings: Is 55:10-11; PS 34:4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19; Mt 6:7-15

Notes

Yes, in joy you shall go forth, in peace you shall be brought home (IS 55:12a).

Summary

In our scripture readings today we are given a particular insight into the divine will for us. Joy. Joy that the Lord is trustworthy. Joy that the Lord provides. Jesus adds that prayer is not to be done without hope (in vain) – In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them.

Pray with hopeful and trusting expectation. What is our greatest need in prayer? Forgiveness. Make no mistake, forgiveness is at the center of the prayer. Here is what Jesus says. The biggest gift from God is forgiveness. Our biggest efforts needs to be about forgiving others. “If you forgive men their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive men, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions.”

One might infer, although imperfectly, that pagan religions do not account for forgiveness. But that is maybe too far.

Reflection

Forgiveness is the greatest gift and the greatest challenge we face. It is the root of many mistakes. In latin we say: sanatio in radice (“healing in the root”). In Canon Law the phrase is used for marriage impediments. In the larger context there are other Church practices of healing that also bring healing to the root.

Personal Reflection

When I consider my prayer life I want to remember that Jesus and the Holy Spirit act at the root. Bring healing at the root, O Lord, that I may be forgiven and forgive as you do.

First Reading

Thus says the LORD: Just as from the heavens the rain and snow come down And do not return there till they have watered the earth, making it fertile and fruitful. So shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; It shall not return to me void, but shall do my will, achieving the end for which I sent it (IS 55:10ab, 11).

Responsorial

From all their distress God rescues the just.

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted;
and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.

Gospel Acclamation

One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.

Gospel

Jesus said to his disciples: This is how you are to pray:

Our Father who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy Kingdom come,
thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry