As we enter into the Seventh week of Ordinary Time, our Gospel instructs us, “Be perfect, just as your Heavenly Father is perfect.” There are many lessons that we can learn from this week’s Gospel. Jesus calls us to love others, and to do good for one another. In our readings, we see that Jesus not only calls us be His disciples, but to draw us near to him. He is calling us to a deeper relationship with Him.
We are called to love, even when it is difficult. Another way to express this is for each of us to will the good of the Father. Let us will good for all those we know. We are even reminded in our Gospel to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Let us learn that mercy triumphs over all. When we will the good of others, our actions will demonstrate our good intentions toward our fellow beings.
God has a plan for us. Let Christ call each one of us, and use us according to His plan. As we look around, we see many things going on in the world. There are countries facing huge difficulties, conflicts, and diseases. We may not know what to think, considering the trials that we face. Yet, Jesus keeps on calling us to love others. We are called to stand firm in our faith, even during our trials and difficulties, and to allow Christ to strengthen us all the days of our lives.
We want to remind you that Ash Wednesday this year is on Wednesday, February 26th. We have three Masses on Ash Wednesday: 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM and 7:00 PM. Ashes will be distributed at all Masses, and at 12:15 PM. We also want to remind you that during Lent we have Mass at 6:00 PM on Fridays, followed by the Way of the Cross.
I hope everyone is enjoying the carnival season. Above all, be healthy, be happy, and be kind to one another.
God Bless.