Hosea 14:2-10 / Mark 12:28-34 (2020)
When we read books like the "7 habits of highly-effective people" or "The joy of living" or other inspirational books, they give very interesting and very good pointers for life.
Yet, when we think about it carefully, the principles of life are actually very simple.
It is actually what Jesus said in today's gospel : Love God and love neighbour.
Sounds simple, but it may take a whole life-time to discover the truth of such a simple statement.
Because we tend to love things and be self-centered.
Yet the season of Lent calls us back to the love of God.
In the 1st reading, the prophet Hosea not only called his people back to this love of God, he also proclaimed how much God loves His people even though they turned away from Him.
We may remember that hymn of Hosea - Come back to me with all your heart, don't let fear keep us apart. Long have I waited for your coming home to me and living deeply our new life.
The way of life is indeed simple: Love God and neighbour. That is the way that Jesus is teaching us.
As the 1st reading ends off - For the ways of the Lord are straight, and virtuous men walk in them, but sinners stumble.