Isaiah 1:10, 16-20, Psalm 50:8-9, 16-17, 21, 23, Matthew 23:1-12
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/030612.cfm
BETTER DEAD THAN RED
"Though your sins be like scarlet, they may become white as snow; though they be crimson red, they may become white as wool." -Isaiah 1:18
You've heard of "white lies." Actually, there is no such thing as a colored lie. There are no black, green, orange, or white lies. However, the Lord does refer to colored sins - at least the color of scarlet: crimson red. As a scarlet red stain is sometimes the most difficult to remove, so certain sins are the most difficult to forget and to forgive ourselves for committing. Even after we have repented, gone to Confession, and been forgiven, we still feel guilty and ashamed.
We must soak in the bath of God's Word (Eph 5:26) if the stain of scarlet sins is to be removed. During Lent, we have a special opportunity to soak in God's Word. Jesus inspired Lent when He overcame the temptations of Satan by repeatedly quoting God's Word (see Mt 4:1ff). At Lent especially, we should abide in God's Word (Jn 8:31). If we do, the truth of God's Word (see Jn 17:17) will set us free (Jn 8:32) from the persistent guilt of scarlet red sins.
Prayer: Father, may I repent so quickly and live so deeply in Your Word that my guilt will only be momentary.
Promise: "Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, but whoever humbles himself shall be exalted." -Mt 23:12
Praise: Matthew began meditating before a crucifix. Jesus softened his heart and gave him the Holy Spirit.
(Soak in God's Word by teaching the Bible. Order our tapes on the "Bible Teachers Series". Our six-tape series starts with AV 117-1. Our three-part video series starts with V-117.)
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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from February 1, 2012 through March 31, 2012
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 29, 2011
The rescript is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.
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