March 18, 2025

Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent

Lectionary 231

Matthew 23:1-12: 

Meditation

Jesus teaches us to reject the ways of those who show off their status. Listen to sound teachings, but don't follow the path of the hypocrite. Jesus preaches a humble way, which can be described in one word: truth. The core of humility is a real awareness of who we are as God's creatures. We must not lose sight of this most basic truth about ourselves.

God is our Creator and our loving Father. Every gift and talent we have comes to us from God. Humility does not require that we deny our abilities but that we acknowledge their source. We do not, therefore, need to put on airs, belittle others, nor should we lord it over them. We do not have to do this. We know the truth, and "the truth makes us free" (John 8:32).

During Jesus's public life, Mary remained in the background. Very few of the words she spoke have been recorded in the Gospels. However, those that have come down to us are filled with meaning and sum up essential aspects of her personality.

Faithful obedience: "Let it be done to me as you say" (Luke 1:38). Joy and praise: "My being proclaims the greatness of the Lord" (Luke 1:46). Tenderness and charity: "They have no wine" (John 2:3). Faith and humility: "Do whatever he tells you" (John 2:5).

At La Salette ministries worldwide, today more than ever, the Mother of Jesus, attentive to all her people, draws to her Son all who see God's love reflected in her tears. She comes to a people who refuse to submit. And how long will she be able to withhold her son's strong and heavy arm? She can only repeat the words she spoke to the waiters at Cana: "Whatever he tells you to do, do it" (John 2:5).