March 9. You know, I wonder whether we make too much of a fuss about liturgy, making things nice in church and singing beautifully,” Mercy shared.  “Why would that be a problem” others asked, “Isn’t our first task as Church to offer worship?” “And doesn’t God love beauty too.”  “Maybe we have to consider our priorities, when there are families struggling with life issues, relationships, people out of work, abuse and poverty.”  Why does God say to the prophet Hosea, “I desire mercy not sacrifice?” Pope Francis recommends this weekend as a time for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Reflect, share. Scripture: Read the relevant longer scripture passage.  “I desire mercy and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.” Hosea 6:6. Pope Francis:  “Let us not love in word or speech, but in deed and in truth.” John spells out God’s way clearly.  It stands on two pillars: God loved us first  and he loved us by giving completely of himself, even to laying down his life. Message for 1st World Day of the Poor.    The great sages of the past run the risk of going unheard amid the noIse and distraction of an information overload. Efforts need to be made to help the media become sources for new cultural progress for humanity.LS 47.  There is a mystical meaning to be found in a leaf, a mountain trail a dewdrop and in a poor person’s face. LD65.  LSAP 6. Ecological spirituality.    Pray a Lenten prayer. O God of the poor, help us to rescue the abandoned and forgotten of this earth, so precious in your eyes. Bring healing to our lives, that we may protect the world and not prey on it, that we may sow beauty, not pollution and destruction.  Choose an appropriate action.