13 th February 2005

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT – YEAR A  

S: Good morning. Well Lent has truly begun and it’s at this time now we might be feeling the pinch with regard to things we have given up or taken on.

A: Our word of life for today comes from Matthews Gospel “ Man does not live on bread alone” – this is said in the context of Jesus being tempted in the desert. The desert represents loneliness and times of hardship and I guess it is in these times we can be tempted to take the easy option – and yet it can also be a time when we can really focus on what we really want.

S: One thing about the desert is that, in a barren landscape there is no hiding place, it’s just you and the elements. The Lenten invitation to journey into the desert is now extended to you. It’s a risky journey as you may not like some of the things you meet. But, it’s all about setting some time aside each day, setting a little space aside in your home/car where you can just think and pray. Time on your own – we all need it – but we seldom take it.

B: So whether its taking time to think and pray or the alcohol, smokes or sweets that you are trying to stay away from – whether it’s the Mass you are trying to get to every morning or the people you are trying to be nice to – do remember to take it one step at a time one day at a time. It’s really all about focusing on what’s important in life, so it might seem like a strange thing to say – but why not enjoy lent and live it well.

S: The following reflection is called “Just a moment”

One moment of caring, for someone in need.

With a heart of compassion, to go with the deed.

One moment of sharing to lessen one’s load,

Just a little candle can light up the road.

One moment of loving, is good for the soul.

It’s something I know – not what I’ve been told.

Remember the message; it’s plain as can be.

You do unto others, you do unto me.

B: And as Lent is a time for doing things here are some that might be of interest; A series of talks and reflections are being offered at the moment based on the Lenten scriptures:

On Thursdays , Fr. Brendan Clifford of the Dominican Biblical Institute invites you to join with him in a Lectio style reflection on the scripture for Lent. The venue is the Diocesan Pastoral Centre and the time is from 8 to 10pm. The cost is €5 per evening. That’s for the next five Thursdays 10 th, 17 th & 24 th February and the 3 rd & 10 th of March.

On Mondays , the Dept. of Theology and Religious Studies at Mary Immaculate College offer a series of short reflections with open discussion during lunch-time. The time is 1.10 to 2pm and the venue is the college meditation room. You are asked to bring a bible with you. This reflection time hopes to offer those involved in liturgical preparation the opportunity to tease out the meaning of the Sunday readings for Lent. That’s Monday in Mary I. 14 th, 21 st, & 28 th February and the 7 th & 14 th of March.

S: Now, in the Pastoral Centre on Denmark Street, every Wednesday night for the next six Wednesdays there is a course called “Exploring Benedictine Spirituality”. The course takes place from 8 to 9.30pm. Further details on all these events can be got from ringing the pastoral Centre on 061 400133

S: You’ve been listening to "Just a thought" with Seamus Madigan...

B: and Brenda Cribbin. We can be contacted through the Limerick Diocesan Offices at 66 O’Connell Street. If you would like a copy of this reflection you can download it by clicking on www.limerickdiocese.org

S: We look forward to your company next week, so in the mean-time take care...

S & B: Bye………….

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