The first reading in today's liturgy is taken from the Book of Leviticus. Don't do this. Don't do that. "You shall not ..." Over and over again. Leviticus is the Jewish book of rules ... 10 Commandments were not enough? Maybe our Catechism might be likened ... somewhat, but only somewhat.
In the readings today, this SECOND DAY of Lent, as explained yesterday, there is something beyond the mandates. "I am the Lord." That sentence appears three times with another variation as well.
In Genesis you find this statement. For the Jewish people this was a reminder of the between God and the people. The part of Leviticus in the reading (Ch 19) is an elaboration, you might say, of the great Commandment given by God: Love the Lord, your God .... and your neighbor as yourself. How often we hear those words. How well are they embedded in your life, my life: in what we do each day?
Read the gospel for today's liturgy. If you ever had a wondering about who your neighbor is, you will find it here in Matthew where Jesus separates the sheep and the goats.
What criteria for separation? What criteria for helping, loving another? "For I was hungry...." "I was thirsty ...." "...a stranger...." "...naked...." "...ill...." "in prison...."
And who are these people today? Who is it that pushes your buttons? Is it the politicians? The illegal immigrants? The ProChoice friends (or do they even bother you?) Gay men and women? Alienated Catholics? Women who want to be priests? Catholics who don't feel the obligation to attend Mass regularly? Alcoholism bound folks? Drug-addicted people?
The caption that appeared beneath the picture I "borrowed" from Collaborative Ministry is this, a quote from 1 Samuel 3:10: "I'm listening Lord. What do you want me to do?"
John Paul II often told us "Do not be afraid." Addressing who it is that I need to love can be fear-filled. Perhaps this is the fasting that we are called to accept during this Lenten season.
