Monday of the 1st Week of Lent
First Reading
Leviticus 19:1–2,11–18
This passage grounds holiness in ordinary relationships — honesty, fairness, justice, and love of neighbour. It challenges the idea that holiness is reserved for extraordinary moments. The Catechism emphasises that charity expressed in daily life is central to Christian holiness (CCC 1822–1829).
Holiness here feels very human: imperfect people trying to live with integrity.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 18(19):8–10,15
The psalm speaks of God’s law refreshing the soul. Rather than restriction, it suggests guidance. When lived sincerely, faith can bring clarity and stability even amid life’s uncertainties.
Prayerful reflection on God’s word often restores perspective.
Gospel
Matthew 25:31–46
Jesus identifies himself with the vulnerable — the hungry, the sick, the stranger. This can be confronting because it removes distance between faith and action. The Catechism stresses that love of neighbour flows directly from love of God (CCC 2447).
This passage invites humility. Few of us love perfectly, yet we are continually invited to try again.
Reflection
These readings carry a quiet but strong message: faith shows itself in how we treat people. Not perfectly, not constantly, but intentionally.
Lent often exposes where we fall short. That can feel uncomfortable. Yet it can also be hopeful — because recognising need is often the beginning of grace.
Holiness rarely looks dramatic. It looks like patience when tired, kindness when inconvenient, honesty when easier options exist.
None of this is about earning God’s love. It is more about responding to it — slowly, imperfectly, but sincerely.
God continues working gently within ordinary lives.
One line to carry today
Holiness often looks like simple kindness lived consistently.
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