March 17.  Cursed is the man who trusts in people. Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord.  Young Jerry was called after the prophet Jeremiah who had started his important ministry while he was still young. As the prophet had grown old and tired he was often disillusioned with the people who wouldn’t listen.  At times in his dialogue with God Jeremiah even said he just wanted to sit down and die. His ministry was speaking out on behalf of God, judging right from wrong and recognizing human weakness.  Jerry’s dad admired Jeremiah but warned his son that like for the prophet it isn’t easy in life to stand up for what you believe. That is the way of the saints, like St Patrick who we remember today .

Reflect, share and act. Scripture: Cursed is the man who trusts in people. Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord.  The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately corrupt.  I, the Lord search the mind and try the heart, to give to every man according to his ways, according to the fruits of his doings. Jer 17:5-10. Pope Francis:  Doing what is right means more than judging what seems best or knowing clearly what needs to be done. We have to arrive at the point where the good that the intellect grasps can take root in us as a thirst for the good that outweighs other attractions. AL 265. Moral Regeneration Movement Positive Values Charter 8.  Committed to the spirit of democracy embedded in our constitution we dedicate ourselves as a nation to strive for justice, fairness and peaceful co-existence which with mutual respect are the basis for national reconciliation. The healing of past prejudices and divisions is required to ensure the promotion of democratic values, social justice and human rights for all.  Choose an act of love and sacrifice from the list, also published at www.marfam.org.za/lent