Monday in the Third week of Lent
2 Kings 5:1-15a
Psalm 42:2.3; 43:3.4 (R. 42:3)
Luke 4: 24-30
In the first reading, we encounter Naaman, a foreigner, in a hopeless situation. This narrative reflects what we become when out of the state of grace. It also reflects how the community can be of great importance or instrumental in making a new creation or bringing God’s blessings. Sin alienates us from grace ad even makes us fail to realize those moments of grace. Sin makes us become like Naaman, spiritually injured, ill-tempered, proud or unbelieving. The role of the community can be seen through the maid in his house, the Syrian king, his servants and prophet Elisha. They all played significant roles in his journey towards purification or healing.
The gospel presents us with the rejection of Jesus among his own people. Filled with wrath, they seek his life but he finds his way out and continues his mission.
During this moment of Lent, the Church invites us to embrace the pillars of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. In them grace is abundant. When we look at the communities in the two readings, we realize that they are in contrast. The community in the first reading worked for grace: they all contributed towards the restoration of Naaman’s health. The one in the Gospel connived against grace: chased Jesus amidst them. Let us build our families or Small Christian Communities by helping others to meet Jesus through the Sacraments. We all have the responsibility to help each other to encounter grace. If we let others go astray or join the rest who have chosen not to accept the Good News, are we his disciples? It is very much unfortunate that we often behave like the community in the Gospel.
Let us pray:
Purify us, Lord, in your mercy and love that you may find place in our hearts. We turn to You with contrite and humble heart, for the many times we have turned against you and misled others. Lord have mercy.
Amen.
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