LENTEN DIGEST with Fr. PIUSRALPH

Table of the Word:

First Reading: Deuteronomy 26:16-19

Resp. Psalm: Psalm 119:1-2, 4-5, 7-8 (R. see 1b)

Verse before the Gospel: 2 Corinthians 6:2b

Gospel: Matthew 5:43-48

Theme: A Call to Wholehearted Holiness

Reflection

Dearest in the Lord, in our reflection this morning, we are called to a total reconciliation and not half hearted, for God is not content with a half-hearted relationship. From the very beginning, He has always desired a people wholly devoted to Him - a people set apart, walking in His ways, and keeping His commandments with their whole heart and their whole soul. In today's First Reading, Moses reminds the people of Israel of the solemn covenant they have entered into with God. They are His treasured possession, and He, in turn, will set them in praise and glory above all the nations He has made. This is not merely a privilege; it is a profound responsibility.

The Gospel takes this call even further and stretches it to its most demanding height. Jesus says to us: "Be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect" (Matthew 5:48). This perfection is not one of flawless performance, but of love, a love that extends even to those who wound us, who despise us, and who make our lives difficult. It is easy to love those who love us in return; even people with no faith can do that. But to love our enemies, to pray for those who persecute us — this is the mark of true discipleship, the hallmark of the children of God. Thus, holiness beyond that of the Scribes and Pharisees.

As we walk through this first week of Lent, the Church invites us to examine the quality of our love. Is our love selective, conditional, and comfortable? Or are we stretching ourselves, by grace, to love as God loves unconditionally and without measure? Lent is precisely the season to close the gap between who we are and who God is calling us to be. Let us not waste this sacred time.

Finally, dearest friends in Christ, the psalmist today shows us the path: "Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord" (Psalm 119:1). Let us pray for the grace to walk this blameless path not by our own strength, but carried by the mercy of a God who loved us first, and loves us still. Peace be with you!

PRAYER

Turn our hearts to you, eternal Father, and grant that, seeking always the one thing necessary and carrying out works of charity, we may be dedicated to your worship. 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 

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

"Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier."

— St. Teresa of Calcutta

LENTEN COMMITMENT 

Today, I commit to identifying one person I find difficult to love, and I will pray sincerely for them by name. 

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