TODAYS REFLECTION 3RD WEEK OF LENT SAT MAR 5

TODAYS REFLECTION 3RD WEEK OF LENT SAT MAR 5 ( Hos 6: 1-6, Lk 18: 9-14 )

#IWANTLOVENOTSACRIFICESAYSTHELORD#

Friends from the readings of today we learn that, the prayers and sacrifices we make to God mean nothing to him if they do not spring from a heart of love for God and for one's neighbour. How can we expect God to hear our prayers if we do not approach him with humility and with a contrite heart that seeks mercy and forgiveness?  The prophet Hosea, who spoke in God's name, said: "I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice" (Hosea 6:6).

In the gospel, Jesus gave us a warning with a vivid story of two people at prayer; the Pharisee and the tax collector. Why did the Lord accept one person's prayer and reject the other's prayer? Consider the  Pharisee's self-righteousness. "O GOD, I thank you that I am NOT like the REST OF HUMANITY", He forgot that we are sinners who depend on God's mercy. His prayers also springs from the assumption that one is qualified to sit in the seat of judgment and to publicly shame those who do not conform to our standards and religious practices.

Brethren as we can see, the tax collectors  prayer was heard by God because he had true sorrow for his sins. He sought God with humility rather than with pride. Pride leads to self-deception and spiritual blindness. I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and humble spirit (Is 57:15). God cannot hear us if we boast in ourselves and despise others. Let us keep in mind always that the lord says "It is love I desire, not sacrifice, and knowledge of God rather than holocausts." May the love of God transform our thoughts where we lack charity, kindness, and forbearance, and may we embrace His merciful love and to seek the good of our neighbours.