Thursday 26th February – Thursday of the 1st Week of Lent

Reflection: Matthew 7:7-12

THINKING OF OTHERS

Jesus words: “Always treat others as you would like them to treat you” referred to as the Golden rule is also called the ethic of reciprocity. These words have been accepted by people of all times, ethnicity and creed as a rule that guards against greed and selfishness. As Christians, the call to consider others first is central to our faith. Just as our Lord poured out His life for us, we too are called to love sacrificially and unconditionally.

How can we claim to be Christians if we are selfish, proud and greedy? How can we claim to be followers of Christ if we refuse to share in His virtues of compassion, seeking the good of others and love for enemies? More than anything else, the Church calls you and me to be renewed this season of Lent. The purpose of our penance is to raise our thoughts outside of ourselves and our comfort so as to think of the needs of others first and to extend our hands to them in charity.

Today, make it a point of duty to seek the needs of others first in every decision you make. Our natural selves are selfish; ask the Lord for the grace to rise above selfishness and to treat others as you would love to be treated. Strive to be perfect reflection of Jesus Christ.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I come to you as I am, please take away every selfishness in me and help me to consider others first and treat them well. Grant me the grace to be a perfect reflection of your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: YOUCAT 173 – Why do we need sacraments in the first place?
We need Sacraments in order to outgrow our petty human life and to become like Jesus through Jesus: children of God in freedom and glory.

HIDE A TREASURE: “So treat others the way you would like them to treat you.” Matthew 7: 12

Today’s readings: Esther 4:17; Psalms 138:1-3, 7-8; Matthew 7:7-12