The Kindness of Turning Back: Friday of the First Week of Lent

"If the wicked man turns away from all the sins he committed, if he keeps all my statutes and does what is right and just, he shall surely live, he shall not die."

Ezekiel 18:21-28 reveals the depth of God’s mercy. The prophet proclaims that when the wicked turn from sin, they “shall surely live” because God does not desire the death of a sinner but that they return to him. This text verse challenges our human tendency to keep track of wrongs. Unlike the world, which often condemns people based on their past, God offers a future built on mercy. Divine kindness is always an invitation to transformation.

Letting Go of Hurt

Kindness is not just about how we treat others, it is also about how we see them. Do we believe in the power of redemption? Are we willing to let go of old grudges and allow others the space to change? The lost art of kindness is the ability to see people not for who they were, but for who they can become in God’s grace.

Faith Beyond Sight

St. Augustine was one of the most influential theologians and philosophers in Christian history. His writings shaped much of Western Christianity and Catholic doctrine, particularly in the areas of grace, sin, and divine love.

In his collection of homilies, Sermon 259, he wrote: "What does love look like? It has the hands to help others. It has the feet to hasten to the poor and needy. It has eyes to see misery and want. It has the ears to hear the sighs and sorrows of men. That is what love looks like." (Sermon 259, St. Augustine)

St. Augustine emphasizes that true Christian love is an extension of God's kindness, is active, unconditional, and freely given to those in need.

Spiritual Empowerment

Today, reflect on someone you struggle to forgive or give a second chance. Offer them, even in your heart, the kindness of believing in their ability to change.

Pray

Merciful Father, help me to reflect your kindness by letting go of resentment and believing in renewal. May I be an instrument of grace, showing others the mercy you so freely give. Amen.