Ordinary Time, 6th Sunday (B) The leper must remove himself from the community in order to save the community. Jesus is the source of healing for the leper, who can go back and be a blessing to his community.

We often think of sin as a private matter. But the seven deadly sins not only hurt us, but they are also toxic to community. Think of the ways that Pride, Envy, Anger, Sloth, Greed, Gluttony, and Lust both infect the host and also corrode relationships around him.

Turn to Jesus. Kneel before him in the Confessional and say, "If you wish, you can make me clean." Jesus will reach out his hand and touch you and make you clean.

Because sin involves the will, we need to invest our wills become healthy again. The three traditional "works" of Lent speed the healing of our souls. Fasting frees us from self-serving, prayer turns us to God, and almsgiving turns out outwards to others. Lent will help you to become more pure of heart and more a blessing to the community.

(11 Feb 2024)

Going Deeper: Reflect on the ways you might have "caught" Anger or any of the other deadly sins from the people around you. What Lenten practice might help you to find new life and bless others in this particular area?

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