Homily for Friday of the 1st Week of Lent

In our Gospel passage today, Jesus calls His followers to embrace virtues and standards that go beyond those of the scribes and Pharisees, for whom the essential commandment was "You shall not kill." Jesus' message transcends this basic commandment, targeting the underlying feelings and passions that can lead people to harm or endanger others. Addressing these deep-seated attitudes and emotions is crucial to preventing evil actions and facilitating a renewal of our minds and souls. 

The profound transformation that Jesus calls for cannot be achieved solely through our own efforts; we need the power and grace of the Holy Spirit to begin this deep change within us. 

So, let us pray that the Holy Spirit will instill within us a deep, God-like love so that the roots of this higher virtue and standard may grow in our hearts and minds, guiding us to become what God truly wants us to be.