Wednesday of the Third Week of Lent March 2, 2005 Scripture: Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9; Matthew 5:17-19 Reflection: It is clear that Moses is addressing the nation of Israel in this reading from Deuteronomy. I wonder what Moses would say to the leaders of our own nation today as we struggle to comprehend the value of war. Wise and intelligent people know the value of the commandment “Thou shall not kill.” Yet we tend to ignore the wisdom contained in this commandment and do what Moses warned against by adding or subtracting from the spirit with which these commandments were given. Listen to the words of Jesus, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets. I have come not to abolish them but to fulfill them.” How can we live in the world today and fulfill the laws given to us by God for our good and for the good of those around us? I believe we need to pray that we will come to understand God’s commands with the mind of Christ. Suggested Action: Pray these verses from Psalm 19 to restore trust and peace in the midst of any crisis: The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul; the decree of the Lord is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the command of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eye. Sr. Margaret F. Gallagher, IHM Warrenton, North Carolina

Graphic: Sr. Donna Korba, IHM