There is a strong note of encouragement running through today's Mass, because today is the mid-point of Lent. In the midst of penance we need encouragement and hope.

Three phrases from the Opening Prayer call our attention to the positive reasons for going through the penitential season of Lent. First of all, we are preparing to celebrate "the great paschal mystery", and for us there can be no greater joy on earth than to enter into the fullness of Jesus' resurrection.

We pray that our love may grow each day. Listening to God's word, whether in the Eucharist or in private prayer, is a sign that we love God. During Lent, however, we are more conscious that we need to purify our love and make it stronger. If we need this purification, God certainly provides it by the mystery of word and sacrament.

Easter is the feast of our salvation, and a feast calls for celebration. We grow in God's love by walking in all the ways that God has commanded us. As our love is purified and grows through Lent, this growing love allows us to approach Easter with a very special sense of joy.