February 23rd, Tuesday, First Week of Lent

Isaiah 55: 10-11, Psalm 34: 4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19, Matthew 6: 7-15

Today's three readings have sent uplifting messages to me.

Isaiah's reading mentions rain and snow falling on the earth, which moistens the ground. This enables seed planted by sowers to take root and grow grain. The grain provides bread for us. Spreading the Word of God is like the planted seed. It goes out to all and shall take root everywhere and grow. It is my responsibility to help spread it.

The Psalm readings for our reflection, offers praise for deliverance from trouble. Seventeen years ago my doctors discovered a fast growing cancerous tumor on my prostate gland. My wife and I were terrified! We both prayed for help from God. After consulting with several doctors, I was treated with thirty-five radiation treatments. Today, with constant help from my doctors, I am relatively healthy. Everyday we are grateful to the Lord for the help I received.

Matthew's reading concerns how we should pray. It tells me prayer does not have to be flowery and long winded. All we have to do is pray simply as our Lord instructs us in Matthew's reading, because God knows my needs before I ask. This suggests saying the "Our Father."

Our Father, Who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
Amen.

This prayer is sufficient if we actually do what the prayer says.

Bob Mathews, husband of Jeanne for 56 years, father of 5, grandfather of 12, Retired Civil Engineer, Parishioner for 55 years.