As we continue by our sacrifices to open our hearts, to convert those parts of our lives which are not of God, we find ourselves in the desert with our ancestors in faith. We find ourselves at the foot of Mount Sinai, here at the foot of the Altar. We listen as they once did to the Words of God, spoken to us from human lips. We open our ears so these words can enter our heart.

But now, we listen with hearts that are Christian and with the mark of our Baptism, we find our hearts turning to Jesus in the Church. Paul says, “Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.” We need not be anxious now because Christ has conquered all that seeks to darken our souls. Our fears come from a deception that is false.

In the Gospel, we confront the reality of our own spiritual lives when we acknowledge all the barnacles that stick to us; envy, greed, lust, selfishness, anger, busyness, gossip and perhaps disrespect of self and one another.

Jesus tears them all down like the tables in the Temple. He beckons us to listen to the authentic Word of God and He challenges us to cling to them ‘for the law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul!’

We have been given the Ten Commandments, read them again and again; recite them to yourselves until you know them ‘in heart.’ ‘They are more precious than gold…sweeter also than syrup or honey from the comb.’

My friends, our God is good. He heals the wounds our sins and selfishness bring upon us. Let us acknowledge that our sinfulness hurts us and hurts the Body of Christ. May our fasting, acts of charity and prayer fill us with hope and lead us to the Easter joy God desires to share with us. Amen.