Homily for Monday of the 2nd week of Lent

Homily for Monday of the 2nd week of Lent 

Daniel 9:4b-10;  Luke 6:36-38.

In the first reading, we have the prayer of Daniel for the people of Israel. In this prayer, Daniel acknowledged that they have sinned and that he also is part of those who offended God. 

In our prayers, we must learn to see ourselves as sinners before God, who are in need of his mercy. As we approach God's throne of mercy, we are bound to be merciful to others.

Jesus, in today's Gospel, said to his disciples, "Be merciful even as your Father is merciful" (Luke 6:36). It is a call to emulate our heavenly Father. 

If we forgive those who offend us, then we too will be forgiven of the offences we commit against God and our fellow creatures because the measure we give is the measure we get back.

God's compassion is all embracing. His love reaches out to all without discrimination between saint and sinner. Like the rain and sun that fall equally on all, so God's compassion and mercy extends to all.

We are being called especially during this Lenten season to emulate the example of God because to him belong mercy and forgiveness as the first reading teaches.

Show us your mercy o Lord and grant us your blessings through Christ our Lord. Amen.