Greetings on this the Saturday after Ash Wednesday
Readings: Isaiah 58:9b-14; Psalm 86:1-2, 3-4, 5-6; Luke 5:27-32
Summary
I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked man, says the Lord, but rather in his conversion, that he may live (Ez 33:11).
The Why of Proximity
"Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?" Jesus said to them in reply, "Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do. I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners."
Personal Reflection
Jesus is near that we might be near to Jesus.
1) Conversion requires example of Love to hear me.
2) Conversion requires hope to heal me.
3) Conversion requires faith to remember me.
Example of Love – to hear me
Incline your ear, O LORD; answer me,
for I am afflicted and poor.
Keep my life, for I am devoted to you;
save your servant who trusts in you.
You are my God.
Hope for favor
Have mercy on me, O Lord,
for to you I call all the day.
Gladden the soul of your servant,
for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
Faith in promise
Incline your ear, O LORD; answer me,
for I am afflicted and poor.
Keep my life, for I am devoted to you;
save your servant who trusts in you.
You are my God.
Lent Week One
May your first week of Lent be filled with the joyful expectation of forgiveness and conversion. See the example of Jesus. Hope in the divine promise. Have faith in your relationship with the Lord.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/030825.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry