By Deacon Daniel Rivas
Jesus speaks highly of the human heart, saying, “From the fullness of the heart, the mouth speaks” (Lk 6:45).
He knows that the quality of society and of the family depends upon the quality of the hearts that found them. In other words, the problem of the heart is a paramount problem because its perfections or imperfections will overflow onto those who proceed from it.
I take the example of my parents, who founded me.
When I was applying to seminary and worried about having to pay if I left, my dad told me, “Son, don’t worry about any of that because all that I have and all that I work for is for you.” I knew then that no matter what happened, he would be faithful.
With my mom, when I was sick in the hospital and on a particularly bad day of pain, she told me at my bedside, “Son, tell me what hurts so that I can feel it with you.” It was then that I understood the heart of Mary, our mother of sorrows at the foot of the Cross.
Both of them, in their own way, revealed to me the heart of Jesus: meek and humble, clean and pure, loving and faithful. This is why I am here today.
Lent is a gifted time to prepare our hearts, through prayer, fasting and almsgiving, for the encounter with Jesus at Holy Week.
What is the purpose of time if not to become like him, who is timeless?
Also, what’s the point of being in the light if our eyes are closed?
Likewise, what is the purpose of our prayer, fasting and giving to others if not done for love of God?
We ask for a new heart always so that when the priest says at Mass, “Lift up your hearts,” and we respond, “We lift them up to the Lord,” it actually means something.
Let’s ask for a new heart this Lent, praying:
“I love you, Lord, with my whole heart, although small, weak and divided;
I ask that you make it great, strong and united.
I love you, Lord, with my whole heart, although seeking of earthly pleasure;
I ask that you may become its only real treasure.
I love you, Lord, with my whole heart, although little, frail and poor;
I ask that you enrich it with your presence more and evermore.”
Amen.
