The second pillar of the season of Lent is PRAYER. The First Reading from Isaiah speaks about God’s word, describing it as powerful and purposeful, like rain and snow that nourish the earth, making it fertile and fruitful. This passage reminds us that God’s word will never return to Him void. It will accomplish what He desires. In the context of Lent, we are called to reflect on the power of God’s word in our lives. As we fast, pray, and give alms during this season, we are invited to open our hearts to God’s word, allowing it to nourish and transform us, just as the rain nourishes the earth.
In the Gospel from Matthew, Jesus teaches us about prayer. He warns against empty, showy prayers, and encourages us to pray in simplicity, in private, and with humility. He gives us the Lord’s Prayer as a model, emphasizing the need for forgiveness, both in asking for it from God and extending it to others. This is a key theme of Lent: repentance and reconciliation. As we enter into this season of penance, we are invited to consider how we might grow in sincerity in our relationship with God and others, seeking to forgive those who have wronged us, just as we ask for God’s forgiveness.
Lent is a time to purify our hearts and intentions. The call is not just to perform outward acts of piety but to cultivate a deeper, authentic relationship with God. The simplicity of the Lord’s Prayer reminds us of the importance of humility in prayer and that, above all, our relationship with God is rooted in love and forgiveness.
The readings today invite us to ask: How can we let God’s word bear fruit in our lives during this season of Lent? Are we praying with sincerity, seeking reconciliation both with God and others?
By. Sr Gifty Anastasia Blewu SMMC (Sister Communicator)
