“be reconciled to god!” (2 cor 5:20)
“Come now, let us set things right, says the Lord: though your sins be like scarlet, they may become white as snow.” —Isaiah 1:18
The Pharisees and Sadducees had hearts for their own honor (see Mt 23:6). Before Jesus chastised them for their pride, He wept over them, lamenting that in their desire for honors, they had completely missed “the path to peace” (Lk 19:42). Moreover, their pride caused them to be badly misled and fail to understand the power of God (Mk 12:24). God’s plan is to touch the hearts of sinful men and women with self-sacrificing, humble love.
Lent is the season to humble our pride and bow before the Lord. One of the best ways to do this is to make a sincere, truthful Lenten Confession. The Lord Jesus opens His arms wide to embrace His people. Our sins cannot keep His love away; it’s only our stiff-necked pride that keeps Him at arms-length.
Ask the humble Jesus if there is any pride in your heart. Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord (1 Pt 5:6). Confess your sins to Him (Ps 32:5). Receive His forgiveness, love, and peace. “Make things right” (see Is 1:18) and be washed clean.
Prayer: Father, may I make any changes necessary to be reconciled to You before this day is over.
Promise: “Cease doing evil; learn to do good. Make justice your aim.” —Is 1:16-17
Praise: Rather than growing bitter over the loss of her husband and children, Theresa began volunteering for her Church family.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
Rescript: "In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from February 01/2022 through March 31, 2022 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio June 16, 2021"
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