Water
Here we are, the day before the beginning of Lent. I think for many people when they hear the word Lent, they automatically think of dryness, the desert, doing without, thirsty, and a longing. So how does the Church prepare for this season? From the readings of today we are told of an abundance of water. In the first reading the world will be washed with a flood. In the psalm, we are reminded that God rules over all, even the water and the wild waves. God is in control. And then in the gospel, Jesus reminds His disciples of the abundance He produced in multiplying the loaves and the fishes. Jesus asks, “How many baskets were left over?” They answered, “Twelve!” And you still do not see? You still do not understand?
We know the rest of the story. We also know that we are weak and preoccupied with many things. The Church fathers realized this, too. We need the time to spend in reflection. We need the time to be washed with the healing waters of confession. We prepare for the resurrection glory when we give up something for Lent that is significant. If we give up something we do not desire, what good is it to reward ourselves at Easter if we did not even miss it? God promises an abundant life if we seek Him. Make this Lent a great Lent. Prayerfully consider what you can do.
May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen