February is observed in many ways: as Black History Month, Catholic Press Month, even National Bird Feeding Month. A heightened appreciation of black contributions to our national story is an important corrective, including noteworthy Catholics like Pierre Toussaint, Daniel Rudd, Father Augustus Tolton, Julia Greeley, Mother Mary Elizabeth Lange, Mother Henriette DeLille, and Sister Thea Bowman.

As we enter Lent, we focus our attention on our journey toward salvation: reexamining the covenant God made with his people and preparing ourselves for divine promises fulfilled.

More theology wars are likely to be fought over the meaning of Christmas than the substance of Lent. While many Christians gear up to do battle every December against an interesting assortment of enemies—Santa Claus, Rudolph, Frosty, the retail industry, and the term “X-mas,” just for starters—nobody seems to have energy left over to take on the secular foes of the Lenten season.

A new parent quickly learns that when all else fails to soothe a baby, simply cradle the child in your arms. Ah, peace reigns. That technique works on grown-ups as well. 

There’s an old joke about the young man who went to Confession and said he had been experiencing temptations. “Did you entertain them, my son?” asked the kindly confessor. “No, Father,” replied the confused penitent, “but they sure entertained me!”

Brothers and sisters, God makes salvation possible. Let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries of God's sacrificial love.

This is the reason for our hope: that God never tires of waiting for us.

Browse our library for additional First Sunday of Lent, Cycle B material.

Click here to view the Take Five weekly for February 18, 2024.