Saturday of the First Week of Lent
Deut. 26: 16-19 | Ps 119 1-2, 4-5, 7-8 | Mt 5: 43 -48
Jesus seems to be reiterating what was said in yesterday’s Gospel concerning the proper attitude toward all people. If there were any questions about what that meant, today’s readings leave no doubt. In Deuteronomy, God is reminding us of the covenant of love that was made between God and ourselves. If God so loves and cares for us then we are called to turn around and do the same for others. Jesus calls us not only to treat others well, but when we are offended to go that extra mile and forgive them. Jesus calls us to be perfect as God is perfect. What Jesus means is that the love of God for us calls us to go beyond what is meeting the letter of the law and to extend that love to all no matter what has happened to us.
Today, allow yourself time to come to know God’s love for you. Realize that God loves you despite your failing. Allow God’s love to touch your heart. Relish this love and then resolve to extend that love to all you meet today. Also, forgive all who have hurt you.