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Monday, March 30, 2020

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Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62
Psalm 23:1-6
John 8:1-11

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"The assembly believed them, since they were elders and judges of the people, and they condemned her to death." —Daniel 13:41

We spend our time judging adulteresses rather than fighting adultery and the demons behind it. Our battle is not against human forces but against the principalities and powers, the legions of demons (Eph 6:12). Like Jesus, we should hold our ground against the evil one (Jn 8:6). "Resist the devil and he will take flight" (Jas 4:7).

The first battlefield on which we attack the evil one is our own hearts. We must fight the Pharisee within us (Jn 8:3) and remove the plank from our own eyes (Mt 7:5). Then we can remove specks from others' eyes. When our obedience is complete, we can make every thought captive to Christ (2 Cor 10:5-6).

In summary, our business is to love the sinner but hate the sin, repent personally, or convict and convert others if they delay in repenting. We have the authority and power to do all these things, and therefore we will be successful.

Prayer:  Father, this Lent may I do my job and not Yours.

Promise:  "Jesus said, 'Nor do I condemn you. You may go. But from now on, avoid this sin.' " —Jn 8:11

Praise:  Juan shares his faith with his brother while praying for him to return to the Church.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 8, 2019

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