"Cease to do evil, learn to do good!" God, through prophet Isaiah, beckons the complainants to come and lay out their arguments. What surprises us is the outcome, "though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be like snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool." Here is a reflection of the indisputable possibility to repent and return. It is possible because of the compassionate treatment of God towards the exilic repentant people. It gives us hope.

Jesus cautioned His listeners and disciples against Pharisaic arrogance and pride, as if superiority is their natural entitlement. God is never impressed with grand religiosity devoid of mercy and charity. We find such attitudes in every level of society. It is not a license for us to imitate. We must not be deluded that life is measured by grandiosity and pomposity. We must take Jesus seriously to be called His disciples. "The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted." It is a divine assurance. In this time of Lent, our practice of faith must be seen to be engaging with the transformation of attitudes. The garbage collectors and janitors are heroes of cleanliness. No matter how lowly, they live up to their roles and names. How willing are we to bend our knees not just to pray but to clear the mess on the ground?

Jesus, You raise me up in my low moments, may I never degrade the lowly with their noble work.