Daily Mass 3-21-2020
Daily Homily for the Third Saturday of Lent on Luke 18:9-14 (Do I Need to Go to Confession to Have My Sins Forgiven?)
Lent is a time when we hear many scripture readings concerning the whole concept of reconciliation. One of the most thought-provoking Bible readings is the passage we read at Mass today from the Gospel of Luke.
We all have heard the story about the two men who went to the temple to pray. One man (the Pharisee) thought that he had checked all his religious boxes. He had done his acts of Penance, praying, making charitable donations and fasting. The other man (a publican) knew he was a sinner and admitted his short comings before God in all sincerity.
The Pharisee did not do anything wrong except that he looked down on others who were not religious enough. He fell into comparing himself to another man rather than honestly looking at his sins. He felt God owed him forgiveness. He deserved the reward of forgiveness because he had done everything right. God could not console him because he had consoled himself. When we console ourselves, it is seldom satisfying in the end. It is much more freeing to feel the forgiveness of the one we have offended.
The publican knew he needed to feel the forgiveness of God. He knew he was sinful. He had lost control of his life and was desperate. The publican knew in his heart he could never heal himself. His contrition was an act of faith in the power of God’s love.
Sincere contrition is all important. This Lent we are in a unique time. Most Catholics in our country will not be able to go to individual Confession because they will not have access to a Priest. This is a real concern for the faithful.
Pope Francis reminded people of the teaching of the church in regarding this dilemma in a daily homily this week. He said:
“I know that many of you go to confession before Easter….Many will say to me: ‘But Father…I can’t leave the house and I want to make my peace with the Lord. I want Him to embrace me…How can I do that unless I find a priest?; Do what the catechism of the Catholic Church says. It’s very clear. If you don’t find a priest to go to confession, speak to God. He’s your Father. Tell Him the truth; ‘Lord I did this and this. Pardon me.’ Ask His forgiveness with all your heart and with an act of contrition, and promise Him, ‘afterward I will go to confession.’ You will return to God’s grace immediately. Your yourself can draw near, as the catechism teaches (#1452) us, to God’s forgiveness without having a priest at hand.”
When we are on our knees with the publican asking for forgiveness with sincerity, we need not be afraid. We will find consolation.
Dear Parishioners,
Remember we are livestreaming Mass this weekend. Please start looking for Sunday Mass late this afternoon. It should appear on the WEB page. This is our first attempt at this so be patient with any glitches.
May the angels watch over you and all you love this day and may Our Lady intercede for us in our hour of need.
Fr. Mark