by Kathy Schmitt
Joel 2:12-18 | 2 Corinthians 5:20—6:2 | Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18
We are ambassadors for Christ, as if God were appealing through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. (2 Corinthians 5:20)
As we embark on the journey of Lent, we hear Paul’s stirring declaration: we are ambassadors for Christ, and our mission is to reconcile the world to God. We have a lot of work to do, for the world is full of sin, evil, and injustice. Providentially, it is also full of grace. But before we speak to others about these things, perhaps we should examine our own hearts for signs of sin, evil, and injustice, as well as for evidence of God’s healing grace. Do our own lives conform to the high standards of the gospel? Have we become complacent regarding any habits, situations, or relationships that we know are not good for us, others, or the planet? Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving: these are the methods we are to use in our mission of reconciling the world to Christ. Are you ready to begin?
- On a scale of 1-10, how ready are you to take up the mission of reconciliation as an ambassador of God’s peace, justice, and mercy?
- Can you readily “give an account of the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15) by naming the countless acts of divine mercy you have experienced?
This reflection was written by Kathy Schmitt. It is included in this year’s Lenten reflection booklet, Embracing Possibilities: Reflections for Lent 2014, and available as a download for purchase from the Pax Christi USA website.
Reblogged this on jbmaverick and commented:
Good to take a moment and reflect…
Religion is boring.