SATURDAY, FIRST WEEK OF LENT
Dt 26: 16-19 Ps 119 : 1-2, 4-5, 7-8 Mt 5: 43-48
FIDELITY TO GOD’S COVENANT
Today’s first reading emphasises the covenant as the foundation of Israel’s identity. God’s election is not based on merit but on divine love and purpose. Vatican II’s Lumen Gentium reminds us that the Church is the continuation of this covenantal people, “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation” (1 Pt 2:9). For us, fidelity to the covenant means external observance and an interior transformation rooted in love. As St. Augustine teaches, “Love God, and do what you will;” for, true love of God aligns all actions to His will. This covenantal fidelity, grounded in love, is the path to holiness.
In the gospel, Jesus raises the standard of love, commanding us to love not just neighbours but enemies. This radical love reflects God’s universal care, “who makes his sun rise on the evil and the good.” St. Thomas Aquinas, in his Summa Theologiae, explains that this perfection of love is the ultimate goal of Christian life, uniting us to God’s nature. Pope Francis, in Fratelli Tutti, reiterates that authentic love transcends boundaries of nationality, culture, and personal grievance. He calls this “social charity,” a love that seeks the good of all, especially the marginalised. This echoes St. John Paul II’s call in Redemptor Hominis for a “civilisation of love,” rooted in forgiveness and reconciliation.
Both readings point to the call to perfection. Vatican II’s Gaudium et Spes highlights that this holiness is not an abstract ideal but a lived reality in the world. Every Christian, in their state of life, is called to reflect God’s holiness. This perfection is not achieved by human effort alone but through grace. As St. Teresa of Avila reminds us, “Holiness consists simply in doing God’s will and being just what God wants us to be.” The Eucharist, as the source and summit of our faith, strengthens us in this journey, uniting us to Christ, the perfect image of the Father.
Response: Blessed are those who walk in the law of the Lord!
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