Throughout the Lenten season, the catechumens, those preparing to be baptized and/or to enter the Catholic Church, are being scrutinized. On the third, fourth, and fifth Sundays of Lent, usually at Mass, the catechumens will be prayed for by the universal Church, according to the pattern of the ancient prayers called "the scrutinies." In these prayers, we ask the Lord to read (e.g. Acts 1:24), search (Ps 139:23), purify (e.g. Acts 15:9), and strengthen their hearts (e.g. 1 Thes 3:13). This "open-heart operation" is absolutely essential, and only God can perform it (Jer 17:10; Jn 2:25), for the human heart is tortuous, twisted, deceitful, and humanly incomprehensible (Jer 17:9). Although the scrutinies are primarily for the catechumens, we all need to have our hearts scrutinized and purified by the Lord. Ask Jesus to remove from the inner recesses of your heart (Mk 7:21) all that is not of Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to pour out in your heart His divine love (Rm 5:5). Then, filled with this love, speak from the abundance of your heart (Lk 6:45). Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us! |