Table of the Word
First Reading: Isaiah 1:10, 16–20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 50:8–9, 16bc–17, 21 and 23 (R. 23bc)
Verse before the Gospel: Ezekiel 18:31
Gospel: Matthew 23:1–12
Theme: Obedience Is Better Than Sacrifice.
Reflection
The virtue of obedience ranks among the highest virtues, second only to love, for through it God’s laws are deeply rooted in our hearts. It is an act of surrender to the will of God, and at the same time an act of worship, for it expresses our love for Him. In the life of Jesus, we see perfect obedience: He submitted entirely to the Father in the Garden of Gethsemane when He prayed, “Not my will, but yours be done.”
Through obedience, God reveals Himself to us. As Jesus said: “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them” (John 14:23–24). It is clear that when we obey, we keep the law of the Lord; and in return, God rewards us with abundant blessings.
In the first reading, the Prophet Isaiah proclaims God’s invitation to sincere repentance:
“If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land; but if you refuse and rebel, you shall be devoured by the sword; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken” (Isaiah 1:20).
Though we are weak and short-lived, God is ever willing and ready to assist us in our frailty. That is why the Prophet Ezekiel calls us to cast away all our transgressions and to acquire a new heart and a new spirit (cf. Ezekiel 18:31).
Dearest in the Lord, we must retrace our steps and press forward with renewed vigor—learning to do good and seeking justice. God is always ready to forgive. As the psalmist proclaims: “To the one whose way is blameless, I will show the salvation of God” (Psalm 50:23bc).
As we continue our journey with the Church along this penitential path, let us remain mindful of the temptations that may arise along the way. This journey has never been, and will never be, easy. There will be stumbling blocks, thorns, and even persecutions. Yet amid all these, do not lose heart. Persevere. And if you find yourself fallen, do not remain there. Rise up, cleanse yourself through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and move forward. Indeed, His grace is sufficient for us.
Peace be with you.
Let Us Pray
Graciously hear our cries, O Lord, and relieve the weariness of our souls, that, having received Your forgiveness, we may ever rejoice in Your blessing. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR TODAY
“Obedience is the key with which Heaven is opened.”
— St. Catherine of Siena
Lenten Commitment
To reduce unnecessary pleasures - social media, excessive entertainment, gossip.
© ARCHIVE 03032026
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