READ
First reading: Ex 3:1-8a, 13-15
Second reading: 1 Cor 10:1-6, 10-12
Gospel: Lk 13:1-9
UNDERSTAND | By Father Greg Friedman, OFM
Lent: It’s not like it was in the “Good Old Days.”
It’s true the Lenten fasting rules are not what they were in the memory and experience of many older Catholics. The emphasis today in our Lenten observance has shifted somewhat. We stress the “baptismal” character of Lent. It’s a time when we re-affirm our Christian identity and support those preparing for baptism. Repentance is still a Lenten focus and today those two themes come together in our scriptures.
Take a cue from St. Paul who creatively retells the story of the Israelites in the desert to remind the Corinthians that being baptized means a life of repentance. A Christian is to live differently—to constantly have a spirit of conversion.
It’s a theme Jesus picks up in the Gospel, correcting popular notions about why bad things happen to good people. All of us, Jesus says, must be “reform-minded.” God doesn’t single out anyone by sending tragedies or natural disasters. We all have opportunities—not unlimited, of course—but opportunities nonetheless, to turn from sin and accept God’s love. It’s what baptism commits us to do.
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DISCUSS | By Father Dan Kroger, OFM
In the first reading, Moses was tending the flock of Jethro when he experienced a miracle. What happened?
What is Paul’s message to his brothers and sisters in this week’s second reading?
In the Gospel, in order to make his point, Jesus uses a parable about a fig tree. What happened?
ACT | By Susan Hines-Brigger
We are three weeks into the season of Lent. Stop and take some time to reflect on how you are doing on your Lenten promises. Whatever your answer, think about what you have learned about yourself during these past three weeks. Think about your path for the remainder of Lent.
