Jn 3.1-5, 10; 1 Cor 7.29-31; Mk 1.14-20

• It was the servant of God, Maria Esperanza (1928-2004), who said of our present generation: “The consciences of this beloved people must be violently shaken so that they may ‘put their house in order’…A great moment is approaching, a great day of light… it is the hour of decision for mankind”.

• Today’s readings call us to convert without delay. When the Ninevites heard God’s warning, they immediately began to repent; when Jesus called the disciples, they immediately left everything behind to follow Him; we too must respond with haste, because the “present form of the world is passing away.” We may be ashamed of our past actions, including involvement in abortion, euthanasia, abuse of the elderly or disabled, but God calls us to come back to Him without delay.

• Let us imitate Jonah’s deeds but not his heart, for he lamented the manifestation of God’s mercy upon the Ninevites. Rather, let us hope that our culture acknowledges its sinfulness and turns away from its evil ways and pray that instead of fire, the gentle rain of God’s forgiveness will fall upon us all.

Pro-Life Intercession

That nations may repent of the sins of abortion, euthanasia, and neglect of the poor and weak, and may reform their laws to protect every human life, we pray to the Lord ...