Wednesday, March 6th
Scripture
JL 2:12-18
Ps 51:3-4. 5-6ab. 12-13. 14 and 17
2Cor 5:20-6:2 / Mt 6:1-6. 16-18
Reflection
Working together, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain for God says: “In an acceptable time, I heard you, and on the day of salvation I helped you. Behold, now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” The term “Lent,” especially today, means the forty days preceding Easter devoted to fasting, abstinence and penitence, but it is good to remember that “lent” has other meanings as well. It is the past tense and past participle of the word “lend” meaning to loan something, to contribute something and to adapt oneself. Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians suggests that working together is needed so as not to receive God’s grace in vain. In a nation torn asunder, we are reminded that now is a very acceptable time. So can we loan each other time for a civil conversation? Can we check our privilege so as to make room for others who are not in the room or at the table? Is it possible to accommodate the alien who comes to our land in desperation? So on Easter we may say that we lent time, lent opportunity and lent ourselves to receive more of God’s grace.
Prayer
May I remember that even my body has been lent to me.
Personal Challenge
Listen today for a dissonant voice, and then LISTEN.
Nancy Corcoran, CSJ
Ferguson, MO
