Your Father knows what you need, even before you ask him.
This, then, is how you should pray: Our Father in heaven, holy be your name, your kingdom,
come, your will, be done on earth, as in heaven. Give us today, our daily bread. Forgive us our
debts, as we forgive those who are in debt to us. Do not bring us to the test, but deliver us from
the evil one.
If you forgive others their wrongdoings, your Father in heaven will also forgive yours. If you do
not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive you.
Reflect
Words can be used as weapons. Research in social media has demonstrated that the harsh
language of social media coarsens our society, inflames anger, damages relationships, arouses
a sense of inferiority, and may exacerbate mental illness.
Today’s readings remind us of the healing power of God’s words. God promises that his word
will always bear fruit in our lives, but we are cautioned to avoid the needless multiplication of
words. Instead, we should limit our words to those that are necessary, true, and kind.
All too often, our lives are filled with words. We talk to friends, family, and coworkers. We watch
videos, listen to music, or scroll through social media. What we are missing is opportunities
for silence and contemplation. Periods of silence create the rhythm in our lives and prepare
our hearts so that God’s word, planted in them, can bear fruit. The season of lent gives us an
opportunity to tune out the noise and embrace moments of silence, resting in God’s holy Word.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2023