1. The First Four Days of Lent (February 13 – 16)
These days serve as an introduction to our Lenten journey. Before we begin the first full week
of Lent, we have a powerful set of readings about our Prayer, Repentance, Almsgiving and
Fasting. We place ashes on our foreheads and learn about the meaning of death and life. Over
two days we pray over the powerful challenge of Isaiah 58. And Jesus reminds us that he is
inviting us to a "change of heart."
Ash Wednesday
o Joel 2:12-18; Psalm 51: 3-4, 5-6ab, 12-13, 14&17; 2 Cor. 5: 20 - 6:2; Matthew 6:1-
6, 16-18
Thursday after Ash Wednesday
o Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Psalm 1:1-2, 3, 4, 6; Luke 9:22-25
Friday after Ash Wednesday
o Isaiah 58: 1-9a; Psalm 51: 3-4, 5-6ab, 18-19; Matthew 9: 14-15
Saturday after Ash Wednesday
o Isaiah 58: 9b-14; Psalm 86: 1-2, 3-4, 5-6; Luke 5: 27-32
The First Week of Lent
It is wonderful to see the early weeks of Lent as a catechism for those who are on a journey
toward Baptism at the Easter Vigil. Each liturgy offers a new "lesson in the faith" for these new
believers. Viewed this way, Lent can be a journey of renewal in faith for us all. We listen, with
the hearts of children, learning old lessons, as though for the first time.
And each day, we pray these special prayers that simply help us keep turning to God for the
graces we need for the day. Throughout the day, we find moments, perhaps "in the
background" while we are doing other things, that help us remember what we are asking for.
Our desire grows as we make changes to our daily patterns. As we make sacrifices, in order to
experience freedom from self-directed needs, we also experience a freedom for other-directed
love and generosity.
Sunday Deuteronomy 26: 4-10; Psalm 91: 1-15; Romans 10:8-13; Luke 4:1-13
Monday Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18; Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 15; Matthew 25:31-46
Tuesday
Wednesday
