Dear John,

Today, as we start the season of Lent, we can choose to change the course of our lives.

The Church knows that we tend to get lazy and lukewarm, and we become attached to the world. Thankfully, every year we have a reminder to seek God instead. As Christians, we know that there are only two paths in this life: one leading to destruction and one leading to life. No matter what we have done in the past, today we can choose the way that leads to life.

Are we seeking things that are fleeting, passing? Now is the time to refocus our vision and make the decision that God is going to be our central focus, seeking Him, listening to Him, and meditating on His Word.

Today, with the words “Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return,” we are reminded of our own mortality. However, “love is stronger than death” and our love of God and neighbor will be the one thing we take with us to eternity.

May we all have a blessed Ash Wednesday, and may this Lenten journey bring us closer to the One who loves us beyond measure.

Here are today’s Mass readings:

First reading: Joel 2:12-18

Psalm: 51:3-6, 12-14, 16

Second reading: 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2

Gospel: St. Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

Here are a few of EWTN’s faith-filled programs to encourage and inspire you today:

HOLY MASS WITH THE BLESSING AND IMPOSITION OF THE ASHES
Pope Francis celebrates Ash Wednesday Mass from the Basilica of St. Sabina in Rome. This Holy Mass with the Blessing and Imposition of Ashes marks the beginning of Lent.

March 2, 10:30 AM. (1 hr. 45 mins.)

SOLEMN MASS OF ASH WEDNESDAY WITH THE MFVA
Live from Our Lady of the Angels Chapel in Irondale, AL, celebrate the Solemn Mass that begins the Lenten season with the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word.

March 2, 8:00 AM. (75 mins.)

REBORN
This cinematic retelling of the Parable of the Prodigal Son demonstrates the joy that awaits those who return to the Father, and experience a God who loves and forgives them.

March 2, 3:30 PM. (60 mins.)

I pray that you will grow in the Love of God this Lent.

In Christ,

Father Joseph

P.S. If you are inspired by this message, please forward it on to your loved ones.