SATURDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 20, 2021

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke 5:27-32

Jesus saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And leaving everything behind, he got up and followed him. Then Levi gave a great banquet for him in his house, and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were at table with them. The Pharisees and their scribes complained to his disciples, saying, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus said to them in reply, “Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do. I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners.”

REFLECTION: "I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners.”

In the American Civil War, desertion was punished by execution. However, the commander in chief, Abraham Lincoln, rarely executed deserters, as he pardoned nearly all of them. President Lincoln empathized with soldiers who were scared and gave in to their fear. Many soldiers were sentenced to hard labor instead of execution. The soldiers who were marginalized for their actions loved the President for his treatment and wanted to serve him. The soldiers were encouraged by his compassion

Sometimes we fail to be good soldiers not being dedicated, hard working or selfless. Jesus is full of grace. He empathizes with our weaknesses and forgives our failures. This Lent look upon the love of Jesus for us, the need for us to repent and atone for our sins. Jesus is the source of our strength We want to serve Him because we know how much He loves us.

Are we willing to suffer for Jesus and work for Him?

Today call or visit someone who has hurt us. Be attentive to how Jesus would speak to them.

God Bless You