WEDNESDAY OF THE FIRST WEEK OF LENT, MARCH 12, 2025

MASS READINGS:

Gospel

Luke 11:29-32

While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, "This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. At the judgment the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it, because at the preaching of Jonah they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here."

REFLECTION

 "there is something greater than Jonah here."

There I sat with my mouth open, watching the performance. No different than the crowd in Jesus' time. I am amazed at the feats and accomplishments of people. And yes, I don't want a good thing to end.

During Lent, as we reflect on our frailties, our deeds or lack of good deeds, the lives we live and the Truth of God, right before me is the greatest...the Son of Man. The Incarnate Jesus is always present. My imagination can take me to many places but the fact that I can talk with God, allow Him to fill my heart with love, surround myself with kindred spirits and good priests is "something greater than the world provides".

He sees us at our worst, forgives us through confession, embraces us with compassion and invites us to feast on Him. I don't need any more signs as the Bible is filled with them. I need to persevere in acts of mercy, faith, hope and love. I need to remember--repent, render, surrender, deny my self and rend my heart for I want to live forever in His home. I want my family and friends to be there too.

So this Lent, pray for yourself and also for others. Remember, where there is love, there is no room for negativity. The Holy Spirit enables us to see and believe the marvels of our Father who lavishes us with blessings.

"She came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon and there is something greater than Solomon here." "At the preaching of Jonah, they repented and there is something greater than Jonah here"....

Work your life so that there is no doubt...you want to be with Him for eternity.

God bless you.