Today’s first reading from the book of Deuteronomy includes a compelling command. Moses is speaking to the people, imploring them to follow the commandments and decrees of God. He says, “Choose life then that you and your descendants may live, by loving the Lord, your God, heeding his voice and holding fast to him.” God is continually asking us to love him (and others!) and to “choose life.”
What does it mean for us to choose life in 2026? We may be burdened by the stresses of the current political climate this year. Choosing life might mean using this season of Lent to take better care of ourselves. If we want to have the energy to respond to the responsibilities placed in our life, our reserves must be full, or at least not empty.
Practically speaking, it may mean taking some deliberate time away from the noise of our phones so we can better hear God speak to us. We could set it aside and read a book, say a prayer, take a walk or grab a cup of coffee with a friend. We can also make a commitment to eat good, nourishing food and make sure we are getting enough rest. This is not your Grandmother’s ‘give up chocolate’ kind of lent. The challenges we face require a steady mind and a spirit refreshed. When we begin to make life-giving choices for ourselves we are better able to serve those who need us.
As Catholics we believe that the spirit of God dwells inside every person. When we love ourselves we can better love others. When we make life affirming choices in our relationships with our family members, we are in fact, loving our God and “holding fast to him.”
So we practice hospitality for our kids’ friends, we listen with an open heart to their trials, we respect their choice of friends and partners and we welcome whatever joy they bring us with open arms because God has not made a mistake. He sends us our people on purpose. Our most important job is to love. Love our Lord, our people and ourselves.
Enough said!
The Last Lap (and what comes next) 