It is 17th February 2016. The readings are from Jonah 3:1-10; and the Gospel from Luke 11:29-32. The first reading teaches us the importance of penance and the reward attached to it. Our penance does impact God. Refusing penance is declining the offer of God to be in the kingdom of God. The people of Nineveh listened to the preaching of Jonah and responded it with penance. God expects us to change during this special time of our personal conversion. The responsorial Psalm prays, “A humbled, contrite heart, O God, you will not spurn.” (Ps.50:19). The Gospel warns us to turn away from our sinful living and return to the Lord. Metanoia means change of heart. Lent is indeed a very special time to consider changing our ways of thinking and doing. God loves us no matter however sinful we may be but God is not happy with our sins. God cares for us even though we are sinners; God does not condone sins in us. Our penance establishes the right relationship with God. Let us be bold enough to approach the throne of mercy with our penance in person and in community. “There is something greater than Jonah here.” (Lk.11:32) May God bless you and have a good day.