With Lent beginning so early in February this year, we are invited to quickly ponder God’s tremendous mercy and our need for forgiveness of our sins. The readings are rich with many terse phrases that enable us to reflect and hopefully deepen our Christian commitment to a Loving God.

You are invited to pray with these short statements today, and try to find one statement which speaks to your heart and, perhaps it could become a theme for your Lenten journey with Christ this year.

Here are few phrases from today’s readings:

When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet – We are ambassadors for Christ

Be merciful, O God, for we have sinned - Now is a very acceptable time, now is the day of salvation

Be reconciled to God Return to me with your whole heart - When you pray do not do so that others may see you

Return with fasting, weeping and mourning.