Category Archives: Psalm 25

It’s never too late

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William Hogarth (1697-1764)
after Nicholas Yeates (1669-1686 (fl.c.))
The parable of the two sons (Matthew, 21:28-32)
print, 1724

Jesus said to the chief priests and elders of the people: “When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did. Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him.” Matthew 21:32

It’s never too late to change my attitudes and behaviors. It’s never too late to ask God to open my heart to mercy and forgiveness. It’s never too late to learn to relate to others with forbearance instead of resentment, patience instead of scorn, kindness instead of ridicule, peace instead of violence, love instead of fear.

Today I will humble myself and ask God to show me where I need to make changes in my thinking, attitudes, behaviors, and actions. I will ask God to give me the courage to make these changes so that I may grow in love and goodness.

Increase love

First Sunday of Advent
First Sunday of Advent

May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all. 1 Thessalonians 3:12

The life of Jesus makes known the ways of the Lord. When we decide to follow Jesus, we intentionally choose the Way of love, healing, peace, justice, compassion, and respect for all people, especially the poor and marginalized.

Today I will increase my love for my neighbor by making a donation to a food pantry.

In the heart of God

Briton Rivière (1840–1920)
The Temptation in the Wilderness
oil on canvas, 1898
Guildhall Art Gallery

At once Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert, and he remained in the desert for forty days, tempted by Satan. He was among wild beasts, and the angels ministered to him.
Mark 1:12-13

The desert gives me space to examine my life and refuse the temptations of despair and indifference. The desert gives me space to release the wild beasts of fear and arrogance. The desert gives me space to put my hope in the Lord and welcome God’s angel messengers who care for me so generously.

Today I will go where the Spirit leads me. With love and trust, I will step into the heart of God and live from that holy place.

Greg Boyle, SJ speaks about living in the heart of God – Ash Wednesday 2024.

Teach me, O Lord

Fishing with the Cast-net

Remember that your compassion, O LORD,
and your love are from of old.
In your kindness remember me,
because of your goodness, O LORD. Psalm 25:6-7

Teach my your way of kindness and goodness, Lord. Grant me the grace to remember all people are in need of compassion. Open my heart to welcome and listen to those who are suffering.

The attitude of Christ

James Tissot (1836-1902)
The Chief Priests Ask Jesus by What Right Does He Act in This Way (Les princes des prêtres interrogent Jésus de quel droit il agit)
Opaque watercolor over graphite on gray wove paper, 1886-1894
Brooklyn Museum

Your ways, O LORD, make known to me;
teach me your paths,
guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my savior. Psalm 25:6a

The Lord’s ways are mercy, compassion, justice, and kindness. May I empty myself of resentment, indifference, selfishness, and arrogance and let God’s goodness and love be my guide and teacher.

Today I will release anything that prevents me from having the heart, mind, and attitude of Christ.