February 15 - Monday of the First Week of Lent

‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did

for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’

Today's Readings

When we think of Lent, the first thing that comes to mind is, “What are we going to give up this year?” Maybe it’s social media, music, or some type of food. However, how often do we meditate on why are giving up things we find enjoyable? Although the things we give up are not sinful, they can keep us more attached to this world than attached to Christ. It can be more difficult than ever to make room for Christ in our life, with the busyness of adulthood and the city. That is why Lent is a beautiful season to recommit. Recommit to a sacrificing, recommit to the sacraments, and recommit to renewing our relationship with Jesus Christ…our God… also our best friend. He is not just our God, but he is Lord over all we encounter everyday! Your boss, your best friend, the person you rode the subway with today… they are all sons and daughters of the Triune God. As Christians, it is our responsibility to use this time of Lent not just to recommit ourselves to Christ, but lets use this as an opportunity to share Christ with others. The Christian life is not meant just for ourselves. It is meant for all sons and daughters of God. Many are not born with the privilege of growing up in a Christian home, or having received catechesis to understand whom Jesus is. 

Whenever you sacrifice something for God, for His sake (and not your own), your heart will be pulled closer to His. If you encounter a 200 hundred people everyday, that is 200 opportunities for sons and daughters of God to come face to face with him… through you! 

Recommit yourself to the Triune God through your sacrifice and the sacraments this Lenten season. It is not just for your relationship with God, but for the entire body of Christ!

1. What do you plan on sacrificing this Lent, and how will it bring you closer to Christ?
2. How often do you receive the sacraments, and is there room for a greater commitment to mass and confession?
3. How can you share your faith through your daily actions?
4. Do you love others, in your life, with a purity of heart? Even those you do not care for?