Thursday of the 3rd Week of Lent (A)

Luke 11:14-23. What brings peace and security to people’s lives? The first reading provides an important lesson: "Obey my voice and walk in all the way that I command you, that it may be well with you" (Jeremiah 7:23). God is telling us here that wellbeing is only given to those who are faithful to Him. And this rings true to many human experiences. People who listen and obey God’s Word live in peace. They may not possess much wealth, but they always live with joy in their hearts. In contrast, people who neglect God’s Word end up broken and disturbed. They feel empty and miserable despite their material possessions and worldly entertainments. Let us then ask Jesus to free us from evil desires so that we can obey and follow the will of His Father.