Lenten reflection, day 2

Scripture readings for today: Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Psalm 1; Luke 9:22-25

Early Christians, like the Israelites, had a keen understanding that they were “people of the way,” called to move and grow and love with God. That is why idolatry is so destructive. God’s first commandment against false idols protects us from wandering down the wrong path into mortal danger.

“How quaint, those ancient peoples,” you snicker. “I don’t worship a wooden statue or a golden calf.” Yet is it a serious blow to your ego when you put on a few pounds or go gray? Have you made your body an idol?

Do you plan every Sunday afternoon around football, shopping, or sports? Do you attend and worship at America’s most popular “churches”—professional sports and the mall? Lent is a time of testing.

Here is a test. Does it irritate you to wait in line two hours for the new smartphone? Do you seethe in secret when your co-worker gets a promotion? Do you fight tooth and nail because your spouse or children don’t see things your way?

These are signs of unhealthy attachments and false idols. Allow your Lenten sacrifice to make you aware of false idols so you can walk again the Lord’s path to freedom and salvation!

Father Francis Mulvaney, C.Ss.R.
Bronx, N.Y.

Download our 2015 Daily Lenten Devotions booklet here.