A time of Lexio devena for the discerning heart.

Saturday of the first week in Lent.

As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly.

For the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of the stay to the Lord.

Say slowly from your heart, Jesus, I trust in you. You take over.

Become aware that he is with you, looking upon you with love,

wanting to be heard deep within your heart. A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Matthew,

Chapter 5 verses 43 through 48.

Jesus said to his disciples,

You have learned how it was said,

You must love your neighbor and hate your enemy.

But I say this to you.

Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

In this way, you will be sons of your father in heaven,

for he causes the sun to rise on bad men as well as good,

and his reign to fall on the honest and dishonest men alike.

For if you love those who love you, what right have you to claim any credit?

Even the tax collectors do as much, do they not?

And if you save your greetings for your brothers,

are you doing anything exceptional?

Even the pagans do as much, do they not?

You must therefore be perfect,

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