Lent is a time when we are called to repent and believe in the Gospel. To believe in the Gospel is to act according to it. Therefore, Lent is also a time when we should think of others before ourselves. As Jesus said in the second of the two greatest Commandments: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Matthew’s Gospel today ends with a similar message: “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the law and the prophets.”
Three quotes I recently heard or read reflect these precepts well, fully acknowledging that it is often easier said than done.
- “Be kinder than necessary to others because they are bearing a cross that we do not see.” (This is likely true for for all of us.)
- “Treat everyone you encounter as if God put them there in front of you.”
- “We must show love for those who do evil to us and pray for them. Nothing is dearer or more pleasing to God than this.” ~St Bridget of Sweden
True, whether at home, at work, or at the grocery store. 🙏😊
Proverbial Living 