The Pharisees and Sadducees had hearts for their own honor (see Mt 23:6). Before Jesus chastised them for their pride, He wept over them, lamenting that in their desire for honors, they had completely missed "the path to peace" (Lk 19:42). Moreover, their pride caused them to be badly misled and fail to understand the power of God (Mk 12:24). God's plan is to touch the hearts of sinful men and women with self-sacrificing, humble love.
Lent is the season to humble our pride and bow before the Lord. One of the best ways to do this is to make a sincere, truthful Lenten Confession. The Lord Jesus opens His arms wide to embrace His people. Our sins cannot keep His love away; it's only our stiff-necked pride that keeps Him at arms-length.
Ask the humble Jesus if there is any pride in your heart. Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord (1 Pt 5:6). Confess your sins to Him (Ps 32:5). Receive His forgiveness, love, and peace. "Make things right" (see Is 1:18) and be washed clean.
| PRAYER: | Father, may I make any changes necessary to be reconciled to You before this day is over. |
| PROMISE: | "Cease doing evil; learn to do good. Make justice your aim." –Is 1:16-17 |
| PRAISE: | Rather than growing bitter over the loss of her husband and children, Theresa began volunteering for her Church family. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College