Sunday, March 20, 2022
The readings for the Third Sunday of Lent for Year C are a call to repent and return to the Lord. The first reading (Exodus 3:1-8A, 13-15) tells of how Moses encountered God in the burning bush. The psalm (Psalm 103: 1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8, 11) sings of God’s kindness and mercy. In the second reading (1 Corinthians 10:1-6, 10-12) Paul warns us to learn from the past. And in the gospel (Luke 13:1-9) Jesus warns people to change their ways. God gives us many opportunities to grow.
This is a time to think about the sacrament of reconciliation and how to really change our ways. Here are some ideas:
Some people fast from social media during Lent. This can be a very effective way to regain wasted time. But if you are not fasting from social media, consider posting an inspirational message. This is a really good Lenten practice for teenagers and adults to try. #Lent #SocialMedia
This video explains the origins of Lent - a time of preparation, and testing, and training. Just as Jesus spent 40 days in the desert preparing for his ministry, we spend 40 days engaging in battle.
Today for Lent, why not pray for someone who has hurt you? This is especially powerful if you are still harboring some resentment. Pray from your heart, but if you are having trouble getting started, try this prayer.
Consider going to reconciliation as a family or with youth group or youth ministry. And then do something afterwards to celebrate this beautiful gift of grace from our Lord. Go out for pizza together or something similar.
Almsgiving is one of the traditional Lenten practices. One way to give to the less fortunate is to make blessing bags for the homeless. These care packages can be given to a local homeless shelter or outreach program to be distributed to their clients. You can also keep blessing bags in your car to distribute to any homeless members of the community you encounter in your daily life.
These things happened to them as an example, and they have been written down as a warning to us, upon whom the end of the ages has come. Therefore, whoever thinks he is standing secure should take care not to fall.
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