Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent March 9, 2004 Scripture: Isaiah 1:10, 16-20; Matthew 23:1-12 Reflection: Isaiah urges rulers and subjects alike to hear God’s word. He promises no matter what their sins they shall be forgiven if they willingly turn away from evil. He offers a litany of positive actions for that time: seek justice, rescue the oppressed, plead for the widow. Are these things so different today? Can we apply his concerns to our world today? Jesus points out the hardships put on people by the Pharisees. He warns those who put themselves above everyone else that they will be humbled. Jesus tells us the greatest among us is the servant of others. Jesus was so committed and determined to change how people lived that he chose to be servant, not king and gentle, not demanding. He knew how to lead others to make good choices. He continued to tell them that they were good and even when disappointed he forgave them. Suggested Action: When praying to the gentle, understanding Jesus, ask for the grace to know what is missing in your life. Whom can you help? Then pray for the courage to take one small step toward living the gospel more fully. Sr. Mary Helen Slavinskas, IHM East Norwich, New York