Daily Reflection for Monday, March 15, 2021
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners!
We encourage you to reflect on Monday’s readings at this link:
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/031521.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Isaiah 65:17-21
Responsorial: Psalm 30:2 and 4, 5-6, 11-12A and 13B
Gospel: John 4:43-54
Our reflection on Monday’s readings:
The things of the past shall not be remembered or come to mind. Instead, there shall always be rejoicing and happiness in what I create. Isaiah 65: 17, 18
Forgiveness. A good Lenten theme. A practice that is worth developing. An opportunity to look deeper into our lives, our hearts, our beings to see where we need to forgive others as well as where we need that same forgiveness for ourselves, both from others and ourselves.
I love the vision I see when I read today’s passage from Isaiah. A new city, a new beginning. A place where people live long and healthy lives. I quickly extrapolate the statement in this reading about no weeping and crying to mean that the residents of this city are happy and joyful, always.
This passage is a glimpse into the vision Isaiah was given about heaven. I think it is also a good analogy to read regarding salvation. The salvation we receive when we choose to follow Jesus. When we say YES to Him and His death on the cross for our sins, we say yes to being forgiven. We experience a personal connection with Jesus’ resurrection. We are freed from the weight of all the sins we have been carrying around.
God creates us anew with this acceptance of salvation and as promised in Isaiah, will fill us with the rejoicing and happiness that comes with whatever is created by God. When filled with the “Son” we can’t help but radiate love outwards.
Two and a half more weeks until the end of Lent and the beginning of the Triduum. How can we continue to use this time to grow closer to our Savior? How can we let go of the things of the past and turn to rejoicing in the gifts He gives us daily? Let it begin with forgiveness.
In Heartfelt Joy,
Lynne Brennan