💖 HOMILY - MARCH 11 💖

First Reading - Isaiah 55:10-11

Gospel - Matthew 6:7-15

Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving are integral aspects of our religious devotion during Lent. However, the life of prayer is not confined to this season alone; it is an essential part of our everyday Christian life. The readings today invite us to examine our prayer life with the eyes of faith.  

The first reading presents a beautiful poetic image of the effects of God’s word, symbolized by rain and snow. The prophet Isaiah, addressing the disheartened and exiled Israelites, reminds them of the power and effectiveness of God’s word. He makes a striking comparison between the word of God and rainfall or snowfall, showing how both have an inherent capacity to bring about transformation. Just as rain and snow nourish the earth, making it fertile and causing plants to grow, so too does God’s word accomplish His will, bringing vitality and renewal to those who receive it. The prophet encourages trust in God’s word, which is faithfully delivered through His messengers and never returns empty.  

The Gospel passage draws our attention to the most profound and filial prayer taught by Jesus—the Our Father. This prayer has deep meaning and relational dimensions, teaching us how to connect with God, with ourselves, and with our brothers and sisters. In relation to God, the prayer teaches us to address Him as Our Father, recognizing His closeness and loving care while still revering His holiness and submitting to His will. In relation to ourselves, it expresses our dependence on God for our daily needs, strength in trials, and the gift of His mercy. In relation to others, it emphasizes love and forgiveness, reminding us that God’s forgiveness is linked to our willingness to forgive those who have wronged us.  

Dear friends, as we journey through Lent, the readings today prompt us to examine our prayer life and deepen our faith. Faith and prayer are interconnected, and Jesus calls us to pray with trust and sincerity. He teaches us that prayer is not just about speaking words but about developing a personal relationship with God. Our prayers should not be empty recitations but heartfelt conversations with our Father, strengthening our bond with Him. At the same time, Jesus reminds us that prayer should also shape our relationships with others. True prayer transforms our hearts, leading us to love, forgive, and show mercy to one another.  

The first reading calls us to trust in the effectiveness of God’s word. The prophet’s invitation is to remain firm in faith, believing in the promises of God. This also reminds us that prayer must be nourished by faith. As St. Paul says, "Faith comes by hearing the word of God" (Romans 10:17). Therefore, let us take this Lenten season as an opportunity to deepen our prayer life by meditating on God’s word. May our prayers become genuine encounters with God, strengthening our faith and guiding us to live in love and mercy with one another.