Monday of the First Week of Lent
Matthew 25:31-46
Time to Do Good

Today’s Gospel reminds us that our faith must be lived out through good works. Jesus speaks of the final judgment, where people will be separated based on their actions—on whether they fed the hungry, welcomed the stranger, clothed the naked, and cared for the sick and imprisoned. This is a powerful call to action: we are called to love through concrete deeds.

First, Jesus gathers all people together. Our faith is not meant to be lived in isolation. Just as Christ chose to walk with His disciples, we too must live in communion with others. How often do we isolate ourselves, waiting for others to reach out first? Instead of making excuses, let us take the initiative to build relationships, to check on those in need, and to share our time with the people God has placed in our lives.

Second, our faith must be expressed in action. Lent is a time to wake up from spiritual laziness and do good for others. If we fail to go out and serve, our communities become unhealthy, filled with gossip and division instead of love. Instead of talking about problems, let’s be part of the solution. There are so many ways to serve—feeding the poor, visiting the sick, encouraging the lonely. What will you do this Lent to bring Christ’s love to others?

Finally, Jesus invites us to inherit the Kingdom. Our actions shape not just our future in eternity, but also our lives here and now. A life lived selfishly becomes a life of misery, but a life of generosity and service brings true joy and peace.

Let us not waste time. Let’s do good while we can, for in giving, we find true happiness. Amen.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025