Daily Catholic Lectio
Fri, 13 March ‘26
Third Week of Lent, Friday
Hosea 14:1–9. Mark 12:28–34
With Understanding
In the parable of the prodigal son, a small phrase marks the turning point of the whole story: “He came to his senses.” The younger son, who had gone far away from his father, suddenly begins to think clearly. His mind awakens, and this awakening leads him back home. Interestingly, the elder son, who remained physically close to the father, never reaches that same clarity of understanding.
Today’s readings invite us to reflect on this deeper dimension of conversion. Turning back to God is not merely an emotional reaction; it is an act of understanding. It is a decision born from clarity of mind and heart.
In our lives we often act on two levels. The first is the emotional level. Here we are easily carried away by feelings—anger, disappointment, fear, or excitement. Emotions can be powerful, but they can also confuse us. Many tensions and broken relationships arise because we react only from our emotions.
The second level is the level of understanding. Here we pause, discern, and recognize what is truly good and right. Instead of reacting immediately, we choose wisely.
The first reading from the Book of Hosea addresses the people of Israel who had allowed their emotions and fears to lead them away from God. They trusted in political alliances, in foreign powers, and in their own strength. But God calls them back and concludes with a striking line: “Let the wise understand these things; let the discerning know them.”
What must the people of Israel understand?
They must understand God’s compassion. Even when they wander, God’s love remains faithful. When they recognize this truth, their hearts begin to change.
In the Gospel, a scribe asks Jesus, “Which commandment is the first of all?” Jesus answers with two commandments: love of God and love of neighbour. The scribe then repeats Jesus’ words and adds that this love is greater than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.
Jesus notices something special in this man. The Gospel says that he answered with understanding. Jesus then tells him: “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.”
Why does Jesus praise him?
First, the scribe recognizes the deep wisdom within the law of God. Second, he understands that love is not merely a feeling. Love is an action. It is a conscious choice. It is something that often requires sacrifice. True love is not simply emotion. It is understanding expressed in action.
Today the Word of God invites us to move from the emotional level to the level of understanding.
In our relationship with God, when we remain only at the emotional level, we easily become afraid, discouraged, or doubtful. But when understanding grows, faith becomes steady and mature. In our relationships with others, emotional reactions can lead to irritation, unrealistic expectations, or rejection of others. But understanding allows us to accept people, to forgive them, and to love them patiently.
How do we move from emotion to understanding? Sometimes the answer is very simple: silence. A moment of silence can calm our emotions and allow our understanding to speak. When we pause, our mind becomes clear, and we begin to see things differently. Only a person who understands deeply can truly love. Because love is not merely a feeling—it is a thoughtful choice.
Today, as we continue our journey through Lent, the Lord invites us to return to Him not only with feelings but with understanding. When our hearts and our minds work together, we discover the wisdom of God’s love—and we draw closer to His Kingdom.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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