Lenten Reflections

Please consider reading these daily Lenten Reflections written by Students, Student Ministers, Christian Initiation and Confirmation Students, YAGS, and Staff as part of your Lenten Prayer. They reflect on the daily readings and are written each day during Lent.

Day 17

Devil’s Been Talkin’

“Here comes that master dreamer! Come on, let us kill him […]. We shall then see what comes of his dreams.” -Genesis 37:19-20

In popular culture, particularly on TikTok, the notion of an “intrusive thought” has gained some traction. It is a thought that barges in, uninvited; oftentimes, the thought is chaotic, disorderly, or even malicious. For example, some recognize an impulse to crush an egg when holding it. Interestingly, most people see these thoughts as “separate.” They do not come from “the self,” but from something else; maybe an alter ego, or, as we Catholics might interpret, the Devil. Joseph’s brothers harbor much envy, resentment, and malice towards him, and so allow the extremely evil thought of killing him to intrude. When we recognize an “intrusive thought” in ourselves – unfound disgust, judgement, or annoyance – take time to call on God’s grace in that moment. Ask ourselves: how have I allowed this thought? What grudge do I harbor, or pain do I carry, that could push my mind here?
And finally, thank God for your mind, and the insight of understanding part of it. It is truly a beautiful, complex thing He has created.

– Brosnan

Day 16

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose hope is the LORD. He is like a tree planted beside the waters that stretches out its roots to the stream: It fears not the heat when it comes, its leaves stay green; In the year of drought it shows no distress, but still bears fruit” -Jeremiah 17:7-8

This lent I feel myself being called closer to God. Contrary to our modern culture, I don’t need material things or status to find joy. God alone can satisfy my heart. I want to deepen my relationship with God which starts with cutting out all the background noise that distracts me from growing in my faith. Today’s readings remind me that I must trust in Him rather than worldly promises. Although I may not think it in the moment, giving up certain things during lent really does help me focus on what is important. It really brings to light all the things in my life that I put before God and gives me a chance to reorder my priorities.

Oh God most high, help us to seek You above all else as our hearts are restless until we rest in You.

– Ryan Nakanishi