Monday of the Second Week of Lent
(Daniel 9:4b-10; Luke 6:36-38)
In today’s first reading it is the prophet Daniel makes an extraordinary
confession. He not only recognizes
himself as a sinner but confesses openly the guilt of the entire community. Although it is true that everyone disobeys
God’s commandments, few, probably even then, are willing to say it
publicly. Daniel also acknowledges that
God is merciful. Perhaps for that reason he does not mind making a public
confession.
In the gospel Jesus underscores God’s mercy. He exhorts his disciples to imitate God’s readiness
to forgive. Only in this way, he says, might
they be forgiven their many sins.
Whatever Became of Sin, we have all heard preachers
refer to this book of fifty years ago. The
situation has only become laxer. Few Catholics
today are confessing regularly. Perhaps attempting
a modicum of fairness, they likewise tend to overlook others’ sins. The result is a society where crimes like marital
infidelity, media disinformation, and assisted suicide are justified. Yet there is the Sacrament of Reconciliation
where we can confess our sins and receive God’s mercy. Society would be stronger if more took
advantage of it.
