Theme: A Call for Genuine Piety
The WORD: Isaiah 58:1–9; Matthew 9:14–15
Reflection
We are already in the third day of our Lenten walk with the Lord. Let us pause for a while and reflect on the journey so far. Some may ask: Is it not too early to begin such reflection? Others may agree that it is necessary. The fact of the matter, however, is not how long the walk has been, but how well we have walked thus far.
Today’s first reading from the prophecy of Isaiah (58:1–9) reminds us of the obstacles to genuine salvation. This passage, which forms part of what is often referred to as Third Isaiah, expounds in detail what is required of us as Christians (Catholics in particular) during this sacred season.
Here, the prophet presents before us two kinds of fasting and strongly warns against the type that does not please God (cf. Is. 58:5), while endorsing the kind that is acceptable to the Lord in the verses that follow. He challenges mere outward piety and calls us instead to cultivate an interior life of holiness without any form of public showmanship.
In this season of Lent, as we carry out our Lenten observances, let us ask God in His mercy to grant us the grace of genuine interior piety, rather than an outward display meant to please others. For in doing this, our reward shall indeed be great.
Thought for Today
“We must fast with our whole heart, that is to say, willingly, wholeheartedly, universally and entirely.”
— St. Francis de Sales
Prayer
Show gracious favour, O Lord, we pray, to the works of penance we have begun, that we may have strength to accomplish with sincerity the bodily observances we undertake. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Lenten Commitment
Remember to fast from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon (if possible), and accompany it with the Stations of the Cross devotion.
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