Wednesday of Third Week of Lent Scripture: Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9; Matthew 5:17-19 Reflection: In today’s first reading, God is telling us how to live justly, how to appreciate life and all of his wonderful gifts to us. The special gift of his closeness to us, whenever we call upon him, is unfathomable. How wondrous to know that we are being held in the arms of such a loving Father! We are his chosen people today, purchased with the blood of the Son of God. The Word came, not to challenge, not to replace, but to fulfill the word of the law. Jesus made it very clear that he wants us to obey and live and teach the commandments. This was not a new message. Did not the Scribes and Pharisees teach the law? Ah, yes! But, did they live and obey it? Are we to learn from these passages that words alone are not enough? Are we to discern that our actions must be in sync with our speech? Old sayings like “Actions speak louder than words,” and more recent expressions like “Walk the talk,” tell the same story. They remind us to be what we say we are: loving children of a faithful and loving God. Suggested Action: Which commandments will you illustrate in your life today? Sr. Mary Enda O’Donnell, IHM Scranton, Pennsylvania

Graphic: Sr. Patricia Woll, IHM