Today’s Gospel (Luke 13:1-9) presents a sobering message from Jesus: “If you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!” He addresses people who believed that tragic deaths were punishments for grave sin, challenging this notion and redirecting the focus inward. Instead of speculating about the guilt of others, Jesus urges self-examination and conversion. His words remind us that suffering is not necessarily a sign of divine punishment but that every moment of life is an opportunity for repentance.

On the mountain of the Transfiguration, Jesus reveals His glory to Peter, James, and John. As His face shines and His clothing becomes dazzling white, Moses and Elijah appear beside Him, speaking of His impending suffering in Jerusalem. Then, from the cloud, the voice of the Father declares: “This is my chosen Son; listen to Him.” (Luke 9:35). These words, spoken in majesty, hold deep significance, not just for the apostles but for each of us as we journey through Lent.

The First Sunday of Lent brings us to a defining moment in Jesus’ life- the temptation in the desert (Luke 4:1-13). Led by the Spirit, Jesus fasts for forty days and is then confronted by the devil, who tempts Him with comfort, power, and self-glory. Each time, Jesus responds with the Word of God, rejecting the false promises before Him. This passage offers us a profound lesson on the nature of temptation, the power of God’s Word, and the strength that comes from total dependence on the Father.

Lent is not merely a season of giving things up; it is an invitation to transformation. It is a sacred journey that mirrors Christ’s 40 days in the desert, calling us to deeper conversion through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. More than a time of restriction, Lent is a time of renewal- a chance to reorient our hearts toward God, stripping away distractions so that we may encounter Him more fully.

Today’s Gospel (Luke 6:27-38) presents one of the most radical teachings of Jesus: “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” This command is difficult to live out, yet it is at the heart of Christian discipleship. Jesus calls us to a love that goes beyond human instinct- a love that mirrors the boundless mercy of God.

In today’s readings, we encounter a contrast between two ways of living: one rooted in trust in human strength and another founded on trust in God. The prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 17:5-8) vividly illustrates this contrast: “Cursed is the one who trusts in human beings, who seeks his strength in flesh, whose heart turns away from the Lord.” Such a person is like a barren bush in the desert, isolated and lifeless. In contrast, “Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose hope is the Lord.” This person is like a tree planted beside water, resilient and fruitful even in times of drought.

Put Out into Deep Water The Gospel for today (Luke 5:1-11) presents a striking moment in Simon Peter’s life- one that changes everything. After a long, fruitless night of fishing, Jesus instructs him to “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.” Initially hesitant, Peter obeys, and the result is overwhelming: a miraculous catch of fish, so abundant that the nets begin to tear. In awe and humility, Peter falls at Jesus’ knees, confessing his unworthiness. Yet, Jesus calls him beyond his self-doubt: “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” This passage invites us to reflect on trust, obedience, and the call to deeper discipleship.

Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, a profound moment of encounter and revelation. Mary and Joseph bring their child, Jesus, to the temple, obedient to the Law of Moses. Yet, what unfolds is far beyond a simple ritual—it is the fulfillment of God’s promises and a moment of transformation for all who behold Him.