Wednesday of the Third Week of Lent
Matthew 5:17-19
Accompanying in Humility

“Whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:19)

Today’s readings emphasise the Law as a gift from God, not a distant commandment, but an expression of His love and closeness. Moses declares, “Indeed, what great nation is there that has gods so close to it, as the Lord our God is close to us whenever we call to Him?” (Dt 4:7). God desires to accompany His people, guiding them with love and care.

Throughout salvation history, God’s closeness is met with contrasting human responses. In Genesis, Adam and Eve hide from God after their sin, and later Cain refuses responsibility for his brother (cf. Gen 3:8-10; 4:9). Sin creates distance, fostering fear and self-centeredness. Yet, God’s love never wavers—He draws even nearer, offering His presence despite human rejection.
Jesus exemplifies God’s ultimate act of closeness. By becoming one of us, He embraces our frailty and endures death on the cross for our salvation. His humility shows that God’s intimacy is not defined by power, but by vulnerability and love.

The Gospel challenges us to reflect this divine closeness in our lives. Lent calls us to break down walls of isolation and accompany one another with tenderness and compassion. Even when physical distance separates us, we can express nearness through prayer, kindness, and solidarity.

Let us ask the Lord for the grace to be people of nearness—ready to walk alongside others with humility and love, just as God walks with us.

Lord, you are the God of nearness, always present in our lives. Fill our hearts with humility and compassion, that we may accompany others as you accompany us. Amen.

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