Lenten Reflections

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By Sophia Faria ’26

One of the themes across the selection of scripture readings for today is turning from wickedness and into the light of Christ. As we live our lives as disciples of Christ, we will undoubtedly go through seasons in which we are strong in our faith and feel “on fire” for God, but then there will be times when it is a struggle to even come to God in prayer, and our spiritual health is lacking. However, it is during these times in which we need to rely on God the most, and redirect our focus on Him. Joel 2:12-13 states, “Even now, says the LORD, return to me with your whole heart, for I am gracious and merciful”. We should never fear to come before the Lord in order to confess our failings as He is filled with joy when we come before him in humility, and is more than willing to mend our hurting hearts. Especially during this Lenten season, if you feel distant from God or are not in a good place in your relationship with Him, there is no need to fear, because turning back to Him is what He so greatly desires from you.

As today’s scriptures remind us, in order to maintain a strong and fruitful relationship with Jesus, obedience, praise, and thanksgiving are essential. Jeremiah 7:23 states, “This rather is what I commanded them: Listen to my voice; then I will be your God and you shall be my people. Walk exactly in the way I command you, so that you may prosper”. While following the commandments God has laid out for us sometimes may not seem pleasant in the moment, it is important to remember that they are for our protection against evil and allow us to triumph over it. Psalm 95 also commands us to “come into his presence with thanksgiving”, “joyfully sing psalms to him”, and “bow down in worship”. When meditating on the immeasurable sacrificial love Jesus Christ showed for us as He bore suffering and death on the cross, it is impossible to not become overwhelmed with gratitude for our most holy savior, and respond with utmost praise and worship. Reflect upon this sacrifice today, and consider how you can use the unique gifts God has bestowed upon you to respond in worship.

In today’s Gospel from the Book of Luke, Jesus teaches the utmost importance of unity, specifically through his words, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste

and house will fall against house”. This teaching can be applied to us as members of the body of Christ, as we can reflect upon how we treat other believers and those around us who may not believe. As all us Christians across various sects and traditions come together to celebrate the resurrection of Our Savior and His triumph over sin and death, we must remember that this belief is our uniting force, and it is far more important from a Divine perspective to focus on what unites us as Christians rather than what separates us, as a “kingdom divided against itself” will not prosper. Let us approach all with love rather than judgment, and share the love and mercy which Christ showed each and every one of us to all of those around us as well. Let us unite to build up the Kingdom of God during this most holy and blessed Lenten season, turning humbly towards God through prayer, thanksgiving, and praise. God bless.