Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned. — Psalm 51:(see 3) 

Mass Readings: Joel 2:12-18 / 2 Corinthians 5:20–6:2 / Matthew 6:1-6,16-18 

Return to God 

Today the Church universal begins the sacred season of Lent, the time of discipline and renewal. We’re reminded in the Gospel of the three traditional disciplines of the season: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. These are suggested ways that we can follow the exhortation of Joel and return to the Lord.  

Each year at this time we have the opportunity to refocus our lives toward the Lord — and center ourselves on the disciplines that the world often considers of little value — in order to prepare ourselves for the sacred Paschal mystery, the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Let us make a commitment to faithfully walk this journey. Let us consider what we can do during this season to rend our hearts and return to the Lord. 

Prayer: Lord Jesus, grant me the grace of Lenten perseverance.