Let’s be honest.
From today’s Scripture: “Even now says the Lord, return to me with your whole heart for I am gracious and merciful.”—Jl 2:12-13 (Gospel acclamation)
In today’s reading, we have two different responses for the call to repentance. Jonah preaches to the people of Nineveh and they repent. God’s wrath is turned away from them. Then, in the Gospel, Jesus speaks about his own generation and how it is that they refuse to repent from their sins.
Yesterday we learned about prayer and today we learn another part of our Lenten journey: repentance. Recognizing our own faults is not something negative or beating ourselves up. Rather, it is a time for us to be honest in our relationship with God and with one another.
Hanging above my desk are the words, “Repentance is a refusal to despair.” Whether we are receiving forgiveness or giving it, it is a freeing experience. It frees us once again to be in relationship with God and with one another.
Hear today the words of Jesus, “Return to me with your whole heart for I am gracious and merciful.” Receive God’s graciousness and mercy and in turn give them to others.
Let us pray: Lord, may I know more deeply your presence in my life and receive your graciousness and mercy. May I in return give to others the same.
Today’s author is Glenmary Father Dominic Duggins. He has served in mission parishes, formation, and administration over many years. Currently he is House Director of the residence at Glenmary headquarters.
Free delivery! Sign up to receive this by email or download the Glenmary app.