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The Door of Repentance Is Always Open
Where We Are
On this Friday of the First Week of Lent, the readings address one of the most important Lenten themes: the genuine possibility of conversion, no matter where we have been. Ezekiel declares that God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked but desires their return, while Jesus deepens the law's demands regarding anger and reconciliation. These Lenten Fridays are days of abstinence and intensified prayer, and today's readings match that seriousness.
The Word
Ezekiel speaks God's word with remarkable clarity: if the wicked turn from sin and practice virtue, they shall live. God does not hold past sins against the repentant. But if the righteous turn from virtue to wickedness, their past goodness will not save them. The psalm cries from the depths: "If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand? But with you is forgiveness, that you may be revered." In the Gospel, Jesus teaches that righteousness must surpass that of the scribes and Pharisees. He addresses anger: anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be liable to judgment. He insists on reconciliation before worship: if you bring your gift to the altar and remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift, go first and be reconciled, then come and offer your gift. Settle with your adversary quickly.
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Reflect
Ezekiel's message is simultaneously sobering and hopeful. Sobering, because past faithfulness does not create a reserve of goodness we can draw on while sinning. The righteous person who turns to evil cannot rely on a spiritual bank account. Each day is a fresh choice. But profoundly hopeful, because past sinfulness does not create an insurmountable debt. The wicked person who turns back to God finds life, not punishment.
This is the theology of Lent in its purest form. No matter how far we have wandered, the door of repentance stands open. God does not want death; he wants return. The psalm captures the only possible response: if God kept a record of sins, none of us could stand. But forgiveness is his nature.
Jesus' teaching on anger and reconciliation puts flesh on this theology. It is not enough to avoid murder; the corrosive anger that leads to violence must be addressed at its root. And reconciliation takes priority even over worship. This is a staggering claim: leave your gift at the altar and go make peace first. God would rather we delay our offering than bring it with an unreconciled heart.
In the context of Lent, this creates a practical imperative. Many of us are engaged in Lenten practices: fasting, extra prayers, almsgiving. Jesus says none of this matters if we are harboring anger or refusing to seek reconciliation with someone we have wronged. The broken relationship is the offering God wants us to mend first.
This is uncomfortable but deeply liberating. We do not need to be perfect to approach God. We just need to be honest and willing to make things right with one another.
Living It
Today, take the call to reconciliation seriously. First, ask yourself honestly: is there anyone in your life with whom you have an unresolved conflict? It could be a family member, a friend, a colleague, or even someone from your past. Do not wait for them to come to you. Jesus says go to them. Second, if you cannot resolve the situation in person today, at least begin the process: write a message, make a phone call, or simply pray for the person by name and for the softening of your own heart. Third, as this is a Lenten Friday, practice abstinence from meat and let your physical hunger remind you of your hunger for right relationships and peace with God and neighbor.
Prayer
Lord, you take no pleasure in the death of sinners but desire that we turn back and live. We thank you that the door of mercy is always open, no matter how far we have strayed. Search our hearts for anger, resentment, and broken relationships that need mending. Give us the courage to seek reconciliation before we bring any other offering to you. From the depths we cry to you, Lord, hear our voice. With you there is forgiveness; in you we place our hope. Amen.
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