WEDNESDAY OF THE THIRD WEEK OF LENT, MARCH 26, 2025

MASS READINGS:

Reading 1

Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9

Moses spoke to the people and said: "Now, Israel, hear the statutes and decrees which I am teaching you to observe, that you may live, and may enter in and take possession of the land which the LORD, the God of your fathers, is giving you. Therefore, I teach you the statutes and decrees as the LORD, my God, has commanded me ,that you may observe them in the land you are entering to occupy. Observe them carefully, for thus will you give evidence of your wisdom and intelligence to the nations, who will hear of all these statutes and say, 'This great nation is truly a wise and intelligent people.' For what great nation is there that has gods so close to it as the LORD, our God, is to us whenever we call upon him? Or what great nation has statutes and decrees that are as just as this whole law which I am setting before you today?" However, take care and be earnestly on your guard not to forget the things which your own eyes have seen, nor let them slip from your memory as long as you live, but teach them to your children and to your children's children."

REFLECTION

But teach them to your children and to your children's children

When I look at the many gifts the Lord has given me, I look back and see if they were used correctly or well. Did I fail to instruct when I should have, did I forget to be a good role model, was I too busy with my life and did what I was not supposed to do, did not do what was necessary? Was I too lazy, too earthly, too wanting my own way? Did I not show my children the right way? Were people even aware that I was a Catholic? Was I even aware there were people around me?

Many things to think about especially with this reading as well as during Lent. We are given an opportunity every year to come to terms with our human ways and reconcile ourselves to the Lord. What will I say for myself when facing my judgment day?

God, my Father, made me and loves me. I am His child. He is the Truth. It is what I was made for. It is what God is, and I was made for God. He will not allow me to perish if I repent, make amends, follow His commands and instructions, do good for others.

During Lent we are blessed with those second chances. That "pull" we feel is the Holy Spirit working in us. Just as a baby changes the lives of the family, we are called by God to let Him show us the way, to let Him change us. Spend quiet times with the Lord and let Him work wonders.

Divorce ourselves from social media. Bind those seven deadly sins. Fill your days with prayer, spend time with the saints, spend time with your loved ones. Reteach your children that which they forgot or that we forgot to teach. Golden opportunity to let your grandkids snuggle up to you and teach them His way, His truth.

May our Lent continue to be the best.

God bless you.