Saturday of the 1st week of Lent
Deuteronomy 26:16-19
Psalm 118(119):1-2,4-5,7-8
Matthew 5:43-48
In our inherently limited human cognition, we frequently conceptualize “perfection” as an end state—characterized by completeness and immutability. However, the divine entity referenced by Jesus as “Father” transcends this simplistic paradigm. God’s perfection is both superlative and limitless, suggesting an ongoing potential for growth and transformation.
As beings created in God’s image, we are summoned to embody divine principles in our daily lives. Our God exemplifies perpetual forgiveness and actively seeks our love, encouraging us to engage responsively across all life circumstances—whether in moments of prosperity or adversity, health or illness.
During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus expanded upon the Law, counteracting the reductionist and often self-satisfied interpretations of the Torah demonstrated by the scribes and Pharisees, thereby offering a deeper perspective on the Commandments. Love emerges as the quintessential expression of freedom. Thus, rather than aspiring to an unattainable state of perfection, we are invited to persistently embark on a journey, wherein each experience enhances our capacity to love increasingly.
GO THE EXTRA MILE
Jesus implores us to delve deeper. Compliance with the letter of the law is insufficient; we are encouraged to transcend this baseline, eliminating underlying sentiments and attitudes that may predispose us to contravene the commandments. Initiating this process with love and reconciliation fosters faith and confidence. Notably, the Didache, an early second-century catechism, exemplifies this principle through its guidance regarding the Eucharist: “Let no one who quarrels with his fellow join you, until they have been reconciled, so that your sacrifice may not be defiled” (Did. 14:2).
Lent transcends mere ritualistic observance; Jesus challenges us to embrace a more profound commitment. This 40-day Lenten journey mandates a departure from complacency, prompting challenges, purification, and rigorous self-examination. It is through love and reconciliation that we can genuinely prepare for and partake in the experience of true resurrection. Therefore, we are called to pray for those who persecute us and strive to “be perfect as your Heavenly Father is perfect.”
Fr Joseph Osho