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
The Divine Plan
I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked man, says the Lord, but rather in his conversion, that he may live (Ezekiel 33:11).
[They] complained to his disciples, saying, “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.” (Lk 5:30-32)
The Change Needed
If you remove the yoke from among you, the accusing finger, and malicious speech; If you lavish your food on the hungry and satisfy the afflicted; Then your light shall rise in the darkness, and your gloom shall become like midday (Isa 58:9b-10).
The Human Response
Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth (PS 86:11ab)
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.
(Ps 86:1-2)
Personal Reflection
In our gospel portion today, Jesus is our physician. He calls us (like the Levi today), he listens to us, he attends to our wounds – however the wounds came to be.
I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners (Lk 5:32).
Call me, Lord, that I may follow. Listen to me, Lord, that I may name my pain and error. Heal me that I may serve faithfully.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022126.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry