Two of the three lessons for today mention “hearing:” Psalm 81 states, “Hear, O my people, while I admonish you; O Israel, if you would but listen to me!” The first commandment from Mark 12 states, “Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one; you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul…”

Against our desire to be listened to, God repeatedly commands us to listen to him. God indeed places small hints of reassurance from the beginning of our Lenten journey, through mention of lilies in the Ash Wednesday readings, and of course, the journey of the dove from Noah’s Ark told on the first Sunday of Lent. Blossoming lilies are again mentioned in today’s readings to remind those listening patiently for God’s voice that He is with us through this journey in the wilderness.

Just as in Advent, the prophet Isaiah foretold the coming of Christ – if we cease our complaints to God and open our ears, hearts, and souls enough to listen to God in Lent, we will hear signs from God to increase our faith so that we may complete our journey in peace.

Michael Lodico

Appointed readings for today: Hosea 14:1-9, Psalm 81:8-14; Mark 12:28-34