By Praveen Bandula csc –
Readings: Hos 14:1-9; Mk 12:28-34
Through today’s readings, our Mother Church is inviting us to return to our Lord. Our repentance is not only of conversion from old behaviour and attitude but also to create a new heart, mind,
and soul for God alone. Jesus gives the summary of Ten Commandments which includes all commandments in it. The love of God and that of our neighbour is essential for everyone who is willing to follow the ways of the Almighty God.
In our dayto-day life, we are busy with ourselves. We do not find time for God and our neighbour who is with us. This is what the Lord is asking us to change, to return from old life and start a new one, which God is asking us to live. Our God is not one who punishes but forgives us. Lenten season is the best time for all of us to start anew. Every day, the Lord is waiting for us to go back to him.
Though we many have gone away from the Lord, there is hope of returning to him. He is loving, compassionate and does not want us to perish. We read how God promises all good things to those who return from past life. He is assuring of all blessings, and he will always be good to us. Now our responsibility is to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. He does not demand our offerings and sacrifices but to love God and our neighbour. Though it is difficult, it is not impossible if we take small steps to live according to his teachings. So, let us prepare ourselves during this Lenten season to return to the Lord with all our heart, mind, and soul.