Third Sunday Before Lent ‘A’

Today’s readings challenge the idea that faith is just a set of "do’s and don’ts." Instead, they  present us with a roadmap for a flourishing life, reminding us that God’s wisdom is designed for  our ultimate happiness. 

In the Book of Sirach, we are reminded of our greatest gift and most significant responsibility:  God doesn’t treat us like robots. We are given the choice between "fire and water" - a metaphor  for life-giving paths or destructive ones. Our character is the sum of our choices. While the world  often feels chaotic, Sirach reminds us that we have the agency to choose goodness every  single day. 

In 1 Corinthians, St. Paul speaks about a "hidden wisdom." Often, the world tells us that  success comes from looking out for ourselves first. However, God’s wisdom revealed through  the Spirit suggests that true fulfillment comes through sacrifice, humility, and love. It’s a  perspective that looks beyond immediate gratification to see the "limitless things God has  prepared for those who love him." 

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus raises the bar. He is not interested in "legalism", doing just  enough to avoid breaking a rule. He wants a transformation of the heart. 

Jesus moves the focus from the action to the intention: 

Don't just avoid murder: root out the anger and resentment that lead to broken relationships. Don't just avoid adultery: cultivate a heart that respects the dignity of others rather than seeing  them as objects. 

Don't just avoid perjury: be a person whose "Yes" means "Yes," so that oaths aren't even  necessary. 

As St. Paul said, "Be angry but do not sin." Anger is a natural emotion, but holding onto it is like  drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. When you feel a "flare-up," pause, and  ask: “How would Jesus view this person?” 

If we follow God’s laws only because we fear punishment, we miss the point. Obedience should  flow from gratitude. We follow the "rules" because we trust the One Who made them. 

Also, be a Person of your word. In an era of "fine print" and "fake news," strive for radical  honesty. Let your integrity be your most defining trait. 

God doesn’t give us Commandments to restrict our freedom, but to protect it. They are like the  banks of a river, keep our lives from turning into a swamp. The choice is ours. Which path will  you walk today?