A conversion of heart–from envy, anger, pride, revenge, and ill will – is called for during Lent, as a person’s “significant contribution to the world.”
Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle urged the faithful to unite themselves to the Lord by allowing His grace to pour in their hearts, to ask for forgiveness, and to turn away from their sinful ways.
“From within a person emanates envy, anger, pride, revenge, and ill will. Lent is an invitation for us to return to God, to repent for our sins. A conversion of heart must come from within a person to return to the loving arms of the Father,” Tagle said.
He reminded the faithful to continue praying, fasting and doing charity work and to give primary importance to the Word of God and not devote time to meaningless and empty words.
“‘Buti pa ‘yung mga walang katuturang salita, pinakikinggan at may tumutugon. Pero kapag salita ng Diyos, meron bang tumutugon? Meron bang interesado?” he asked.
“A conversion of heart calls for us to stop being self-centered… There are those who do works of mercy merely for show, to grab attention, and to gain favor for themselves.
“‘Look at me, I am donating, take my picture.’ Works of mercy and charity are done not exactly to help but for themselves to be noticed, to become famous, or to gain praise,” Tagle said.
“When we look at the needy, do not think of them as a problem or someone who is a burden. Think of them as blessings, who need to be loved, cared for, and helped,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Catholic Church, by tradition, celebrates the Fourth Sunday of Lent as a Sunday of joy and rejoicing.
Also known as Laetare Sunday, from the first words of the Introit at mass today, “Laetare Jerusalem!” (Rejoice, O Jerusalem!), Eucharistic celebrations will highlight the nearness of the Resurrection of Christ on Easter Sunday, which will be observed on April 16 this year.
With the theme “Hope and Rejoicing,” church hymns will speak of joy, hope, and consolation. Musical accompaniment, which has been silent during the preceding three Sundays, will be used during the mass. (Christina Hermoso)