Mass Readings for February 19, 2026-First Thursday after Ash Wednesday

First Reading: (Dteronomy 30:15–20)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 1:1–2, 3, 4 & 6)

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

• Blessed is the one who does not follow the counsel of the wicked

• But delights in the law of the Lord

• Like a tree planted near running water

• The Lord watches over the way of the just

Alleluia: (Matthew 4:17)

“Repent, says the Lord; the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Gospel: (Luke 9:22–25)

Jesus said:
“The Son of Man must suffer greatly… be killed… and on the third day be raised.”
“If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself,
take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”
“What profit is there to gain the whole world yet lose oneself?”

Reflection

Today’s readings strike at the heart of Lent’s purpose: decision.

1. “Choose life.”

Moses presents a stark choice: life or death, blessing or curse.
Not as a threat-but as a revelation.
Every day, every action, every desire bends us toward one of these paths.
Lent exposes what we’ve been choosing without noticing.

2. The Cross is daily, not seasonal.

Jesus doesn’t say, “Take up your cross once.”
He says daily: meaning discipleship is not a moment but a rhythm.
It’s the small sacrifices, the quiet obedience, the hidden fidelity.

3. The world offers gain; Christ offers life.

The Gospel asks the most piercing question:
What am I chasing that cannot save me?
Lent is the season when we stop pretending that worldly gain can fill a spiritual hunger.

4. The invitation is personal.

Christ doesn’t say, “Follow My teachings.”
He says, “Follow Me.”
A relationship, not a rulebook.
A Person, not a program.

Prayer

Lord, help me choose life today-
not the life the world promises,
but the life You offer:
faithfulness, courage, sacrifice, and love.
Give me the grace to take up my cross daily
and follow You with a willing heart.
Amen.