Day Nine: The Call to Reconciliation
Friday, First Week of Lent

Scripture Passage:
“If you bring your gift to the altar and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:23-24)

Opening Reflection:
Reconciliation is at the heart of our Lenten journey. Christ reminds us that our relationship with God cannot be separated from our relationship with others. True worship demands a heart that seeks peace, healing, and unity. Today’s Gospel calls us to examine our hearts—are there unresolved conflicts, lingering resentments, or broken relationships that need mending?

Meditative Reflection:
Jesus teaches that reconciliation must precede worship. We cannot truly offer ourselves to God while holding onto anger or unforgiveness. The world teaches us to protect our pride, but Christ calls us to humility to be peacemakers, even when it is difficult.

Think of someone with whom you have had disagreements. Have you held onto grudges or avoided making amends? This season of Lent is a time to lay down our pride and seek peace. Even if reconciliation seems impossible, a prayer for that person, an act of kindness, or a step toward forgiveness can open the door to healing. Christ Himself showed us the ultimate act of love on the Cross, forgiving even those who crucified Him. Can we follow His example today?

Reflection Questions:

  • Is there someone I need to forgive or seek forgiveness from?
  • How does reconciliation with others prepare my heart to receive God’s grace?

Lenten Question:
Q: Why does Jesus emphasize reconciliation before worship?
A: Because worship requires a heart free from bitterness and division. Reconciliation restores peace, allowing us to stand before God with sincerity and love.

Lenten Action:
Reach out to someone with whom you need reconciliation. It may be a conversation, a message, or simply a prayer for them. Let today be a step toward healing and peace.

Concluding Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You call us to be peacemakers, to forgive as You have forgiven us. Give me the grace to let go of anger and pride, to seek reconciliation, and to love with a heart renewed by Your mercy. May my acts of forgiveness bring me closer to You. Amen.

Resources for Lenten Prayers and Reflections:

Daily Saints and Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Lenten Reflections | EWTN | https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/reflections/lent

Lenten Prayers and Daily Reflections | My Catholic Life | https://mycatholic.life/lent-prayers-reflections/