Saturday, first week of Lent

JMJ

Blessed Ember Saturday!

Entrance Antiphon:
The law of the Lord is perfect;
it revives the soul.
The decrees of the Lord are steadfast;
they give wisdom to the simple.

Collect:
Turn our hearts to You, eternal Father,
and grant that, seeking always the one thing necessary
and carrying out the works of charity,
we may be dedicated to Your worship.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,
who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Readings:
Deuteronomy 26:16-19 (you have chosen God and He has chosen you, for holiness)
Psalm 119:1-2, 4-5, 7-8 “Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord”
+Matthew 5:43-48 (love your enemies as God loves His)

The soul who pants for God
wholeheartedly
will never rest content
with second-best
but will press on
relentlessly
toward the heights
of holiness
until his love resembles
that of God–
a vivifying force
that rises, falls and suffers
to redeem.

O Lord, give me this love!
Set my soul on fire to shine and warm like Your Son.
Overflow my heart with the rain of Your mercy.