Today the First Reading tells us: "...for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks in the heart." (1 Sam 16: 7) When we turn to the Gospel we can hear how the Pharisees are divided. Jesus has healed the man who was born blind, however, he did so on the sabbath. Some of the Pharisees, therefore, say "This man is not from God" (Jn 9: 16) while others wonder: "How can a man who is a sinner perform such signs?" (Jn 9: 16) So much of what we seek to accomplish through our Lenten observances is oriented towards a change in our inward state. Human beings, as enfleshed spirits, necessarily manifest their interior dispositions through their bodies. Every Sunday we are invited by the Church to have a period of fasting before Mass. This is not as rigorously observed as previously but still has considerable value. It is also laudable to wear our "Sunday best" as a way of recognizing the dignity of the celebration. In addition, we can prepare for the Mass through reflecting on the readings for the coming week and praying with them. Let us be mindful to assist the transformation of our hearts, by attending to bodily disciplines, so that we may ultimately be pleasing to the Lord who sees what is in our hearts.
No comments:
Post a Comment