INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
The combination of a wandering Easter and the three-year lectionary cycle means that the last readings before Lent are ever varied. This year they provide a fine overture to the Lenten season.
The ancient sage and Jesus both call for personal integrity, for clear consistency between our inner and outer selves, for words and actions that are true.
Growing out of self-deceit and into integrity is an eminent Lenten goal, provided we let God’s purifying spirit take the lead. For his part Paul offers us a glimpse of the Easter that lies ahead, our glorious share in Christ’s triumph over death and sin. And earthy advice as well. Don’t give in to defeat, work on, just make sure it’s the Lord’s work we’re doing.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all who have lost hope and wish to take their own lives, especially young men and indigenous children, that the faithful loving-kindness of others will rekindle their desire to live.
SAMPLE INTERCESSIONS
These intercessions are offered for selected use at Sunday Mass in the parish alongside those that express local needs and concerns.
PRESIDER
Dear friends, Jesus calls on his disciples to be clear-eyed, honest and good-hearted. In that spirit, let us offer our prayers to God for the wellbeing of the world.
READER
We pray for Pope Francis, that he will regain the health and strength he needs to lead the church on the path of synodality and service. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for the baptised people of God, that the light of Christ will dispel all darkness from their hearts and guide them on the way of truth. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for the leaders of every spiritual tradition, that they will speak with one voice for the good of humanity and the life of the earth. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for those who wield influence in the world of social media, that they will refuse to spread misinformation or sow division but will commit themselves to uphold truth and love. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for women around the world, that this year’s International Women’s Day (8 March) will hasten an end to discrimination and disadvantage and enable them to flourish. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for all who are engaged in negotiations for treaties with the people of Australia’s First Nations, that they will be steadfast in pursuing the goal of mutual recognition. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for community workers reaching out to disaffected young people, that they will gain their trust and succeed in diverting them from the path of radicalisation and crime. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for our parish community as Lent approaches, that all members will be inspired this year to hear the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for those who have died recently . . . . , and those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that they will put on immortality and rejoice with God forever. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
PRESIDER
Good and faithful God, your Son Jesus showed us the way to true life. Give us the freedom of heart to follow him each day. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.