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Be the Love the World Needs Now

February 18, 2026

Joel 2:1-2, 12-17| Isaiah 58:1-12|  2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10 |Matt 6:1-6, 16-21| Psalm 103

Today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, the ancient season of penitence and fasting that prepares us for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection at Easter. Over the centuries, Christians have followed Lenten disciplines of repentance, self-examination, and denial to remind us of our need to renew our relationship with God.

Somehow this old formula does not fit for me this year. Perhaps it is the wintry weather or more likely the worry that predominates our lives right now. I have to fight the instinct to curl up in a blanket with a hot cup of tea and keep the world at bay. And yet, I have the sense that God is beckoning me to move outside my safe cocoon to draw closer to the magnificent self-giving love that we celebrate at Easter. The call I hear is to be the love the world needs right now.

How do we do it? For me it starts with becoming more aware of those around me, even though I may not know them. It can begin with a smile which often brings a startled response and sometimes a smile in return. Or perhaps it is giving a cheerful thank you to the cashier at the grocery store or helping someone whose car is stuck in the snow in a parking lot. Or by checking in with a neighbor who might need help or encouragement. Even a small act of kindness can bring unexpected joy…for both the giver and the receiver.

You can ask questions about the needs in our community because by doing so you are choosing to make a difference in the lives of those around us. You might help at the Interfaith Food Cupboard or volunteer to help at CCK or Lunch on the Hill. You can help Loaves and Fishes as they prepare and take food and clothing to our neighbors in Woonsocket. You might feel called to support or advocate for those who have no voice and live in fear through Love + Action. St. Luke’s offers many opportunities for us to serve our neighbors and each of us can find a way to share God’s love with others.

There is a lot we can do. We are rich in God-given gifts, and we are called to put our gifts to work to bring God’s love to the world. As you pray your way through Lent, listen for your call to serve our sisters and brothers who need to know that we care. And know that you are not alone for we have a wonderful community of support to help us find our way to serve!

Betsy Fornal