Our Lenten weekday readings begin with the final judgment, when “all the nations” appear before Jesus Christ to be judged for the way they have treated “the least” , the hungry, the thirst, the naked, the sick, the prisoner. “Christ in disguise”, to use a term of Mother Teresa.

“When did we see you in them”, those judged ask?  (Monday)

The readings for the days that follow tell us the way to see– by prayer. On the mountain Jesus teaches his followers the Lord’s Prayer, the common prayer of all God’s children. God is our Father. We ask to be given our daily bread. We ask that we all be forgiven and not be tested beyond our strength.

God gives us a gift to pray that our eyes may see and our hearts be open. Like snow and rain, the gift of prayer falls on us all. God give us the gift to pray. (Tuesday)

Prayer is more than prayer for ourselves and our own needs. The story of Jonah points to a world bigger than our own. We’re children of the world and we must pray and work for its good. (Wednesday)

Never lose confidence in prayer and what it makes possible. “Ask and you will receive, seek and you will find. Knock and the door with open” Jesus teaches. (Thursday)

Make sure as you approach the altar to pray that your heart is free from resentment, harsh judgment and anger. Otherwise, your prayer become weak and blind. You cannot see.  (Friday)

We must pray even for our enemies. For our Father causeS the sun to shine on the just and the unjust and the rain to fall on saints and sinners. (Saturday)

.