IS 55:10-11
PS 34:4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19
MT 6:7-15
As we enter into the first week of Lent, the
Gospel today reminds us about forgiveness.
When was the last time I forgave someone?
Many times, we forget to forgive each other and
ourselves. It can be easy to fit into the mold where we swiftly apologize and
go about with our day without recognizing the other person. Other times, we let
ourselves get too caught up in the day and with other people, that we forget to
forgive ourselves for working so hard or for being exhausted. Remind yourself
that it is okay to take time for yourself or to be with others.
The Gospel also reminds us of the power of prayer
and forgiveness. How many times do we go to mass and repeat the same prayers
every time without thinking of the meaning of the words? Many of us have grown
up with the Our Father and the Apostle’s Creed, but many times we just recite
those words without knowing what those words really mean.
While you read the Gospel today, think of the
meanings and intentions of the Our Father in the way that Jesus intended for us
to read these prayers, and also contemplating how each of these verses
continues to serve us in our daily lives. Think about the “Daily Bread” that
exists in your life and how that influences the ways in which you view Jesus.
Think about those words of the Our Father--what/who is the “Daily Bread” in
your life? How do the ways in which this person or thing act that reminds you of
the bread that is broken? Who has trespassed us this day, and how do we go
about reconciling that relationship? How do you stay out of evil and temptation
this day?
As this Gospel is sitting with you, take the time
to think and reflect on the ways that Jesus intended us to understand the Our
Father, about forgiveness and caring for both ourselves and others.
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