Take away: Next week either in confession, via email or in person: Come tell me: what is an area of your life in which you were blind but now see? Imagine this parish community in which we are all aware of our blindness and sin – where we are living in the truth --- but we surrender to Jesus - like Stephen Lungu - and let Him give us new sight and a new dignity through the light of his grace in baptism - receiving it and living it more fully! I invite you all right now to say this prayer with me: Come Lord, I want to see! I am a sinner. Have mercy on me! Touch my eyes and make of me a new creation. Open my eyes to who you are and who I am in you. Help me see everything through your eyes, in your light. Make me a new creation and with my witness to the joy of living in your light, may others be drawn to you too! https://bccatholic.ca/voices/anna-loch/if-jesus-can-change-a-gang-leader-s-life-he-can-change-ours

Take away What would it look like if we had a community where we’re all trying to be Sam’s for one another? Whether it is when you leave the Church today --- or when you are at home or going to work Monday - note that person for whom you can be a “Sam Gamgee” to — who is the Frodo in your life - your wife, son or daughter or colleague. Who is that person who need encouragement and ask Jesus to help you help them!

Take away Lent begins in a couple of days with Ash Wednesday. The 40 days of Lent gives us the opportunity to grow in the perfection of charity by making time to be with Jesus. Two possible ways to discover and experience the Father’s love – learn yourself – over and over again by reading about God’s perfect love for his children: Bible in a Year – just start listening today! OR read the bible each day this week for 15-20 minutes – starting with St Matthew So you’ve heard about the Prodigal son – you know “that person” in your life: do what the Father does: wait, pray for that person from your heart even if they do not respond. Then you will know what “be perfect as your Father is perfect” REALLY MEANS.