3RD WEEK OF LENT

Whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.

Imagine that you are at an awards ceremony. But this is not your typical awards show; this one is in heaven, and it’s led by God, the ultimate Master of ceremonies. And the awards are for people who have done what Jesus speaks of in today’s Gospel: “Whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:19). When it comes time to announce the winners, you are shocked. They are calling your name!

You don’t think of yourself as one of the “greatest in the Kingdom” (Matthew 5:19), but that’s how God sees you. Each day you try to be as attentive to his voice as you can. As often as possible, you receive him in the Eucharist. There have been times when you have made a hard decision to forgive someone who has hurt you. You regularly donate to those in need, and you’ve tried to share God’s love with many people in your life.

Yes, the winners in the kingdom of heaven may not be the people you would have most expected. They are not always the best-looking, the most athletic, or even those whose good deeds have gone viral on social media. That’s because God “looks into the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7) and sees what no one else may see. He sees you. He knows that you’re not perfect, but he sees all the steps you’ve taken to listen to his voice, to obey him, and to allow his love to change your life.

Today, think about that awards ceremony in heaven. Then invite the Lord to speak to you about how you can be the “greatest” in his eyes. Is he nudging you to be content with what you have? Is he asking you to take a day of rest? Or perhaps he’s calling you to maintain an attitude of kindness toward people you find difficult to be around. Obey him today, and imagine his great pleasure as he gives you the kingdom of heaven award!

“Lord, I know that you see me even when no one else does. Help me to live for your eternal reward and not for any other fleeting prizes.”

Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9
Psalm 147:12-13, 15-16, 19-20
Matthew 5:17-19