18 Mar
Fri
1st Week of Lent
Ez. 18:21-28
Ps. 129(130):1-2,3-6,7-8
Mt. 5:20-26
(Ps Wk I)
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Virtue for the scribes and Pharisees was largely measured by external observance of every detail of the law. For Jesus that is not For him real virtue is in the heart. There was a commandment not to kill but Jesus says that even hatred and anger, violence in the heart must be avoided. Furthermore, we cannot have one set of relationships with God and another set with people. So, it is no use going to pray piously and make our offering to God if we have done hurt to a brother or sister. I must leave my gift at the altar, and first go and be reconciled with my brother or sister. Only then may I come to offer my gift. I cannot say I love God if I hate a brother or sister. "If someone says he loves God, but hates his brother, he is a liar" (1 Jn 4:20) and "As often as you did not do it to the least of these you did not do it to me." Repentance has to be expressed both to God and the person I have hurt. I cannot be reconciled to one and not to the other. The only way to God is through the people around me. That is why we make the Sign of Peace before Communion. How can Jesus come into a heart full of anger and resentment?



Forgive us our sins as we forgive the sins of others against us.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That the nations of Latin America may walk in fidelity to the Gospel and progress in justice and peace.
Elaboration

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