The Bible readings during Lent all serve to remind us of the need for change, for repentance, for conversion. Even though our sins are not like “scarlet” but more pink-ish the call to reform of life is there. The Prophet Isaiah holds up what would have been for him thousand year old examples of sin, Sodom and Gomorrah, to say that it’s not too late, that reform of life is possible. However the prophet does not accuse the sinful cities of the sexual crimes we associate with them. Instead he points out the kind of care expected of the people of God. Make justice your aim: redress the wronged, hear the orphan’s plea, defend the widow. Treating one another, particularly those who vulnerable, with compassion is the path to true repentance.
