5 March, Wednesday — Our duties as God’s earthly representatives

Ash Wednesday

Jl 2:12-18
2 Cor 5:20-6:2
Mt 6:1-6,16-18

“We are ambassadors for Christ.”

As God’s children, we are called to be His earthly representatives and ambassadors. We represent His love and mercy to the world. Yet, how often do we neglect this sacred duty, choosing instead to turn away from our divine mission and acting against God’s instructions? The first and second readings from today offer profound insights into the consequences of such neglect and the urgent need for repentance.

In the First Reading, we hear the Lord’s plea: “Come back to Me with all your heart.” This call to repentance is more than just a warning; instead, it serves as a reminder of God’s mercy and love. Even in the face of judgment, God eagerly awaits our return with open arms. He yearns for our return to Him, demonstrating His love for us. Flawed, we may be, but deeply loved just the same!

As Christ’s ambassadors, we are entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation, tasked with bridging the gap between God and humanity. Paul warns us not to receive God’s grace in vain, urging us to embody the message we proclaim. The urgency of our mission cannot be overstated: “Behold, now is the acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

Let us not wait for the threat of punishment to motivate our faithfulness. Inspired by God’s mercy, let us recommit ourselves to our role with renewed zeal NOW.  

How do we renew our relationship with God? Are there complicated and unique steps we would need to take? It is much simpler than that. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that, to establish and build our relationship with God, we need to connect with Him daily, including daily time for personal prayer and reflection,  living just lives, and doing charitable works — amongst other things. All these open our hearts to God, allowing Him to work through us.

May our hearts be moved by Joel’s call to return to God, and may our lives echo Paul’s dedication to reconciliation. We are chosen to represent God’s kingdom on earth; let us seize each day as an opportunity to bring His light into the world, embodying Christ’s love and leading others to reconciliation.

(Today’s OXYGEN by Paul Wee)

Prayer: Father God, help us to remember our responsibilities to God. Help us to continue to grow in love for You. May we always turn to You, repent, and be open to those around us. Help us be open to Your promptings and love, and allow us to continue to be guided by Your Spirit.

Thanksgiving: Thank you Lord, for Your love, and for sending great apostles like Paul to guide us. Thank You for not leaving us to figure out challenges on our own, and for always watching out for us.