FREEDOM

"The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, Because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners..."

Isaiah 61:1

Jesus proclaimed this reading from Isaiah in his hometown at the beginning of his public ministry.  It is most often linked with Advent but as we approach the Lenten Season (Ash Wednesday is Feb. 17) let's remember the joyful reason of Christ's coming as a human.  The Incarnation is Very Good News and let's proclaim that news to all.

At our recent Day of Reflection, I was reminded of the freedom that Christ has brought me personally and I know that many in our community share the knowledge of that same freedom.  We are no longer prisoners of our hidden desires/thoughts; we can live proudly knowing that we are ALWAYS loved by the God who made us and saved us.  We may fall into sin at times but God's forgiveness - through Jesus Christ - is available to us at all times.

Meditation: As we approach the Lenten Season, prayerfully consider not only what you should "give up" but also what you should "take on" for your Lenten journey. For example: more personal prayertime, more community prayer, Daily Mass, Service Projects to those in need...be creative.

Call to Action:  Find a venue to do extra prayer either alone or with others.  Add a Daily Mass to your Lenten schedule.  Join Imago Dei on Fridays for our weekly Faith Sharing Group or Monthly Mass on the Second Friday of each month.  (shameless plug)