Dear Friends,
We are moving forward as “Pilgrims of Hope” this First Sunday of Lent and onward to Easter!
The weekend Sacred Texts remind us, as Paul said to the Roman community, “the word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart.”
Just three days ago, on Ash Wednesday, we acknowledged a new season, Lent! Taking Pope Francis’s theme for our Jubilee Year, we journey with one another as pilgrims, faithful pilgrims, seeking to live the life Jesus has given to all who choose to follow Him. Jesus has spoken the Word of Life and has placed it within our hearts and mouths.
Now is the time to reflect on this treasured gift bestowed upon us.
As we hear in todays’ Gospel from Luke, may we like Jesus, take time “away” to be in company of our God and deepen our spiritual journey. Like Jesus in the desert, we have temptations before us. Are any of the devil’s temptations to Jesus ones we deal with? Food/Drink? Riches of the world/personal kingdoms we have created? Are we shaken when earthly ways don’t go as we desire and are taken by sinful directions?
Jesus needed no test to rely on God. When we are tested do we rely on God? Today our Scriptures speak to us about our spiritual comportment, our inner fidelity, and our need to rely on God who is always present to you and me!
There are many opportunities before us this Lenten Season to deepen and renew our relationship with Jesus. You have received in the mail the many things that are available to us these weeks leading to Easter Sunday. Make room in your personal “desert” for prayer, fasting, charity and take advantage of what our parishes are offering.
If you are reading this and did not receive the Lenten mailing, check our website, weekly email, and this bulletin of what can bless your path as a “Pilgrim of Hope.”
Let us pray for one another and our world that we may live and know the peace of Jesus Christ!
Blessings,
Father Rob