Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, continuing our Lenten journey, the readings today invite us to a profound transformation—a cleansing of our hearts and a deepened commitment to justice and humility. The words of the prophet Isaiah reach out to us across time, urging us to listen carefully to the instruction of God as it is a grace for us.
In Isaiah 1:10, we hear a sharp and compelling admonition: "Wash yourselves clean! Put away your misdeeds from before my eyes; cease doing evil; learn to do good." In a world inundated with noise and distractions, God invites us to reflect deeply on where it is we find ourselves on this earthly pilgrimage. What is it that we need to cleanse from our hearts?
What are the things we may be holding on to that we know are weakening our resolve to love the Lord better and as is fitting? What keeps us from giving our time to help others in need and championing causes for social justice? How are we defending the unborn, for example? When was the last time we volunteered at a soup kitchen?
Isaiah beckons us not only to spiritual cleansing but also to champion justice—“Make justice your aim: redress the wronged, hear the orphan's plea, defend the widow.” The responsibility falls on each of us, especially as we reflect on the injustices present in our fallen world of selfishness and ambition, to transcend the material allurements of self-gain, and truly give ourselves to the service of others to cooperate and participate in having God’s goodness reign supreme.
This Lenten season calls us to take similar steps. How are we being invited to “hear the orphan’s plea” around us? Are we willing to not only seek our own comfort but also the well-being of those marginalized and in need?
Moving to the Gospel of Matthew (23:1-12), we hear Jesus making a stark distinction between true discipleship and mere ritualistic practice. “The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but do not practice.”
This indicts us, as well. There is a temptation to identify ourselves as “religious” while failing to embody the values of compassion and humility. Jesus' conclusion in today’s Gospel is particularly poignant: “The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
One of my favourite titles for the Pope, our holy father, is Servant of the Servants of God. Consider the story of Mother Teresa, who exemplified the humility of service. She often asked, “How can I be of service?” rather than seeking recognition or accolades. Her life’s work among the poorest of the poor challenged the world to rethink greatness—not as an exercise in self-promotion, but as an act of sincere love and service.
As we contemplate Ezekiel’s invitation found in the gospel acclamation, to “cast away from you all the crimes you have committed” and to “make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit,” we call upon our Lord’s help. May he illuminate our hearts and minds and give us the grace to make the right choices as we proceed on the path of holiness. Amen.
Add comment
Comments