# Renewing Our Covenant Life
*2016-03-05*

> Bill reflects on a men’s conference and the Lenten reading from Psalm 31:16, urging listeners to renew their covenant with Christ amid a culture of consumerism.

## A Men’s Conference That Stirred My Heart

I attended the sixth annual Archdiocese of Miami Men’s Conference, where the speaker, Matthew Leonard, spoke movingly about the three stages of becoming a saint. I realized I’m still in the first stage, but the talk encouraged me to press on toward the next.

## Today's Lenten Scripture

Our Lenten reading comes from Psalm 31:16: “Let your face shine upon your servant; save me in your steadfast love.” This verse captures the longing for God’s mercy that we all feel during this season.

## The Danger of a Self‑Centered Culture

Our world is saturated with consumerism and a frantic pursuit of fleeting pleasures. When we become absorbed in our own concerns, there is no room left for others, especially the poor. God’s voice grows quiet, the joy of His love fades, and we risk becoming resentful, angry, and listless. Such a life is not God’s will.

## A Prayer to Renew Our Covenant

Now is the time to turn to Jesus and say: “Lord, I have let myself be deceived in a thousand ways and have shunned your love. Yet I come again to renew my covenant with you. I need you. Save me once more, Lord, and take me into your redeeming embrace.”

Jesus, hear my prayer.

*Lent calls us to step away from self‑absorption and recommit ourselves to God’s steadfast love.*