3rd Week of Lent 2024 - Wednesday - The pure of heart shall see God

 In the Office of Readings this morning from the Liturgy of the Hours, there is a passage by a saint named Theophilus of Antioch. Theophilus was the sixth bishop of Antioch. Ignatius, our patron, was the third bishop.

Writing 30-40 years after Ignatius, bishop Theophilus has a famous letter to a pagan name Autolycus. And Theophilus is writing to his pagan friend in order to convince him to become Christian. Throughout the letter, Theophilus presents arguments and explanations to address Autolycus's doubts and objections regarding Christianity. He contrasts the moral teachings of Christianity with the vices and immorality prevalent in pagan society, urging Autolycus to embrace the moral teachings of Christ.

And Theophilus has this great quote, he writes, “If you say, 'Show me your God,' I will say to you, 'Show me what kind of person you are, and I will show you my God” Theophilus knows that striving for moral purity will help Autolycus come to grasp Christ. For Purity of heart enables us to more clearly apprehend truth and apprehend God. Jesus says, “Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God”. 

This is why in our scripture readings today Moses and Jesus are both stressing the importance of following the law and following the commandments and teaching little ones to do the same. God desires that we come to behold his face. And that means striving for purity of heart.

Purity of heart involves adhering to God's commandments and living in accordance with His will. It includes refraining from sin and avoiding actions, thoughts, and attitudes that are contrary to God's standards of holiness. A pure heart fosters intimacy with God, allowing us to experience His presence. When we are in right relationship with God, our hearts are open to His love, guidance, and revelation.

"Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?” the Psalmist asks, “And who shall stand in his holy place? Those who have clean hands and pure hearts, who do not lift up their souls to what is false, and do not swear deceitfully."

Lenten repentance and Lenten prayer, fasting, and almsgiving all help us to cultivate that purity of heart God wants for us.

Beloved, as we continue our Lenten journey, let us renew our commitment to lives of profound holiness and integrity—to purity of heart. Through our words and deeds shining with the light of Christ, may all peoples come to know and follow Christ for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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For the whole Christian people, that in this sacred Lenten season, they may be more abundantly nourished by every word that comes from the mouth of God.

For the whole world, that in lasting tranquility and peace our days may truly become the acceptable time of grace and salvation.

For sinners and those who neglect right religion, that in this time of reconciliation they may return wholeheartedly to Christ.

For ourselves, that God may at last stir up in our hearts aversion for our sins and conviction for the Gospel.

For all who have died, and for all the poor souls in purgatory, and for X. for whom this Mass is offered.

Grant, we pray, O Lord, that your people may turn to you with all their heart, so that whatever they dare to ask in fitting prayer they may receive by your mercy. Through Christ Our Lord.