Saturday of the 3rd week of Lent
Gospel: Luke 18:9-14In today’s Gospel, Jesus contrasts two ways of approaching God. The Pharisee stands confidently, listing his virtues, while the tax collector remains at a distance, aware of his poverty before God. He does not raise his eyes but simply prays, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” In this humble cry we discover the true relationship with God. It is not built on self-justification or comparison with others, but on sincere humility and trust in God’s mercy. The tax collector’s prayer opens the door for grace because it recognizes the truth of the heart. During Lent, this Gospel invites us to stand before God without masks or pretenses, acknowledging our need for His mercy. When we approach Him with humility and honesty, we find that His compassion lifts us up and restores us to a renewed relationship with Him. Let’s reflect: Lent is standing humbly before God, recognizing our sin and trusting completely in His mercy.
Don Giorgio