The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, February 28, 2001
The Season of Lent
Ash Wednesday
Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Joel 2:12-18
Psalm 51:3-6,12-14,17
2 Corinthians 5:20--6:2
Matthew 6:1-6,16-18
Full text: http://www.nccbuscc.org/nab/index.htm
A Reflection on Today's Scripture:
Today we begin again the grace-filled penitential season of Lent. By
nature it is a season we don't necessarily look forward to, but
rather, with God's help, endure.
The fact that Lent is difficult, illustrates its very necessity.
In Christ's suffering resides the unescapable truth that it is
because of us that he was humiliated, scourged, mocked and crucified.
Otherwise, He never would have had to leave the splendor of heaven.
As Christ had to die (for our sins) in order to rise again, so too
must we.
Herein lies the difficult and necessary activity of Lent: dying to
self that we might share in the glory of the Resurrection. Certainly,
for most of us, dying to self is a long process. St. Teresa of Jesus
calls it the "long martyrdom" where day, by day, by day, we live less
for our own self-interest and more for the glory of God.
I'm reminded of a hymn that has a verse that asks the Lord to "change
my heart this time...." It makes me consider how many Lent's have
gone by, how many opportunities for true contrition, firm resolve and
their associated good works have passed. As we are marked again with
ashes and the sign of our salvation, may we entreat the Lord to
"change our heart this time." Amen!
- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds
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