Saturday after Ash Wednesday
First Reading
Isaiah 58:9–14
Isaiah continues the theme of authentic fasting begun earlier in the week. True devotion expresses itself through justice, compassion, and reverence for God. The Catechism highlights that conversion involves concrete acts of charity and mercy (CCC 1434).
Faithfulness therefore becomes visible through everyday compassion.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 85(86):1–6
This psalm expresses trust in God’s mercy and desire for guidance. It reflects a humble posture — recognising dependence on God while seeking faithful living.
Prayer rooted in humility fosters spiritual resilience and peace (CCC 2559).
Gospel
Luke 5:27–32
Jesus calling Levi emphasises God’s initiative. Discipleship begins not with perfection but with response. The Catechism teaches that conversion often starts with recognising God’s mercy rather than personal achievement (CCC 1427–1429).
Christ meets people in their ordinary circumstances and invites transformation.
Reflection
These readings reinforce a key Lenten insight: God’s grace precedes human effort. Isaiah highlights compassion as essential to faith. The psalm models humble prayer. The Gospel shows Jesus actively reaching out to those considered unlikely disciples.
Lent therefore becomes a season of renewed openness. Rather than striving for flawless spirituality, believers are invited to respond honestly to God’s invitation.
Growth in faith often happens gradually — through small acts of mercy, deeper prayer, and willingness to begin again. Spiritual maturity involves recognising both human limitation and divine generosity.
God’s call remains consistent: return, trust, and walk forward.
One line to carry today
Grace meets us where we are — and invites us forward.
No comments:
Post a Comment