Daily Gospel Reflection for March 7, 2022

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Matthew 25:31-46

Today is the first Monday of Lent. Have you decided on anything to give up yet? If you’ve been procrastinating, today’s Gospel might provide some inspiration.

At the end of Matthew chapter 25, Jesus explains to His followers what the Last Judgment will be like. In the end, the “sheep” will be separated from the “goats,” with the sheep being those who inherit the kingdom. And how will the Son of Man decide who is worthy of that? By examining how well they cared for the least. What Jesus gives next is a list of ways we can care for the least. These things are now commonly referred to as the corporal works of mercy: feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, care for the sick, give shelter to the homeless, visit the imprisoned, and bury the dead.

How can this help us fast this Lent? Instead of simply giving up something, what if you give up something and then practice a corporal work of mercy with the extra time or money you have? For example, maybe you give up the extra cup of coffee at the fancy coffee shop and instead give a gift card for a couple cups of coffee to a homeless person. Instead of taking the family out to the movies, maybe visit an elderly neighbor who might enjoy the company and the conversation. Bring along a board game or a deck of cards and have some fun. Instead of buying that new outfit, maybe go through your closet and find some gently used clothes to donate.

Ponder:

What’s one thing I can give up this Lent that will inspire me to practice a corporal work of mercy?

Pray:

Lord, help me to see the ways that I can practice the corporal works of mercy within my own family and community.

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Procrastinating on how to fast this Lent? Today’s Gospel might inspire you! #dailygospel

Copyright 2022 Amy J. Cattapan