friday of the first week in lent

​Date: Friday, February 23
Contributor: Cindy Lee
Lectionary Link https://www.lectionarypage.net/WeekdaysOfLent/FridayFirstWeek.html
 
When I first read today's readings from Ezekiel and Matthew, I was a bit overwhelmed by the long litany of harsh judgments and punishments that are applied to all sorts of transgressions, iniquities, sins and treachery. Even everyday human behavior, like expressing anger or tossing insults, makes us “liable to the hell of fire”.
 
After reading further, it becomes clear that these readings are leading us to focus on how to achieve redemption, reconciliation, wholeness and forgiveness in our lives. For Matthew, the starting point for this path is for us to reconcile with our brothers and sisters.
 
Some days I worry that the world is moving away from understanding these essential brother/sister bonds amongst all humans on this earth. Wars are raging and deep prejudices are growing. The idea of caring about our collective global family seems to be losing ground. I find myself praying for us to find ways to restore the social fabric that knits us together.
 
So thankfully, Psalm 30 leaves us on a brighter note, giving us hope for mercy and redemption. Peace and hope to all this Lenten season.