God Desires Mercy, Not Sacrifice: Reflection for the Third Saturday of Lent
On this Third Saturday of Lent, we are invited to pause and reflect on the depth of God’s mercy and our response to it. The readings from Hosea 6:1–6 and Luke 18:9–14 offer a sobering yet hope-filled message: God desires hearts full of love, not mere ritual or outward piety.
Hosea 6: Return to the Lord Who Heals
“Come, let us return to the LORD…” begins Hosea’s plea. Even when we feel torn, struck down by sin or suffering, the Lord promises restoration. “He has struck us, but He will bind our wounds.” This is not a God of vengeance but one of healing and resurrection—“on the third day He will raise us up.”
But God’s call isn’t just for physical return. He seeks a spiritual renewal: “It is love that I desire, not sacrifice, and knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.” During Lent, this passage reminds us that repentance must come from the heart, not just external practices.
Luke 18: The Humble Heart is Justified
In the Gospel, Jesus contrasts two prayers. The Pharisee boasts of his good deeds, confident in his righteousness. Meanwhile, the tax collector stands at a distance, humbly begging for mercy: “O God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” Jesus leaves no doubt: it is the tax collector—not the outwardly religious man—who goes home justified.
The message for us this Lent is clear: humility is greater than pride, and mercy greater than show. When we approach God with sincere hearts, acknowledging our weakness, we open ourselves to His transforming grace.
Lenten Invitation
As we continue through Lent, let us:
Examine our hearts: Are we offering genuine love or simply going through motions?
Seek humility: Like the tax collector, we must admit our need for God’s mercy.
Return to the Lord: With confidence that He will heal, revive, and raise us up.
“Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
– Luke 18:14
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Did You Pray Today?
Daily prayer is a powerful way to strengthen your faith, find peace, and invite God’s presence into your life. Even a few moments of prayer can bring clarity, comfort, and spiritual renewal. Whether you are starting your day, taking a break, or preparing for sleep, these short yet meaningful prayers help you stay connected to God.
Take a moment now to pray:
The Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Our Father (The Lord’s Prayer)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
The Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
A Daily Habit of Prayer: These prayers take less than a minute, yet they bring us closer to God each day. Keep prayer at the center of your life and experience His love and guidance.
Walking in Faith, Growing in Grace
Every day is an opportunity to draw closer to God. In prayer, in scripture, and in the moments of stillness, He speaks to our hearts. Faith is not just about knowing—it’s about living, trusting, and walking in His light.
Through life’s joys and challenges, we are called to remain steadfast, to seek Him in all things, and to reflect His love in our words and actions. Even the smallest acts of faith— a whispered prayer, a kind word, a moment of gratitude— bring us deeper into His presence.
May this space be a source of encouragement, reflection, and renewal for you. Wherever you are on your journey, know that God is with you. Keep the faith, stay rooted in prayer, and continue seeking His truth.