One Step Closer

Homily for Friday of the 3rd Week in Lent

Today’s readings form a beautiful arc: God calls, we wander, and God keeps calling us home.

Hosea speaks to a people who have strayed, yet God’s voice is tender: “Return to the Lord.” It’s not a command of anger but an invitation of love. God promises healing, flourishing, and a renewed heart. The spiritual life always begins with this simple movement—turning back, even if only by a few degrees.

The Psalm echoes the same longing. God remembers lifting burdens from Israel’s shoulders, yet the people would not listen. There’s a quiet sadness in that. But there’s also a promise: if we open our hearts, God fills them with “the finest wheat.” In other words, God wants to nourish us more deeply than we nourish ourselves.

In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus brings everything into sharp focus. The greatest commandment is not complicated: Love God with your whole being. Love your neighbor as yourself. This is the path home. This is the return Hosea speaks of. This is the nourishment the Psalm promises.

And when the scribe understands this, Jesus says something remarkable: “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” Just one more step of love, one more moment of turning back, one more breath of openness.

Maybe that’s where we are today—close, but not quite there. And maybe all God asks is that we take one small step toward love.

Every moment offers a chance to return – one small step to God’s presence, one small step compassion and love.