March 14, 2023
Each day, I reflect upon a word or a phrase inspired by the readings of the day. I encourage you to do the same and perhaps incorporate that word or phrase into your daily prayer.
And now we follow you with our whole heart, we fear you and we pray to you. Do not let us be put to shame, but deal with us in your kindness and great mercy. (Daniel 3:34-43)
WITH OUR WHOLE HEART: Speaking about temptation and encouraging us to take advantage of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, I once heard a priest ask, “What is on your heart that shouldn’t be there?”
That question fits in beautifully with the prophet Daniel’s message. If we want to follow God “with our whole heart,” we must rid ourselves of the temptations that reside there, taking up precious space intended for Him.
We need to examine our heart. Take an honest look at what we are holding there. Has God been squeezed out by temptation? By false gods?
We should put aside our fear and shame and seek reconciliation with God. We can turn to Him, confident that He will deal with us in “kindness and great mercy.” Then, God will fill in the newly-created space in our heart.
From the Deacon's Desk 