As pockets of clouds drifted across the clear night sky, the moon, at its fullest continued to reflect hope and promise in each passing moment, inspiring hope and promise with each passing thought. What is, what would be, what could be, beholden to One, the only One. There is I Am.
The response to the Psalm for the Third Sunday of Lent is, “If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.” (Ps 95:8). What does a hardened heart look like? Physically, it is one in which arteries may be clogged, or the lining may be thickening, to name a couple attributes. Overall though, it is a heart that is blocked in one way or another from working optimally or as designed. Spiritually, a hardened heart is also blocked in one way or another from working fully, as intended by God.
So how does one recognize a hardened heart? Well, as with many things, there are indicators as well as tests that can alert one to the status of their heart. And in faith, the directions always start at the beginning. “If today you hear God’s voice…”
What does God’s voice look, or sound like to you? What adjectives would you use to describe God?
Now, taking Light to life, what happens when you try to assign those same adjectives to describe the heart behind your words and actions throughout the day, the week, and more? In what situations do they fit? And in what situations, is there an invitation for greater growth and movement toward taking on the heart of Jesus?
A Lenten Prayer: Heart of Jesus, open our eyes and ears. Heart of Jesus, show us what our hearts are looking past. Heart of Jesus, help us to acknowledge what is, what would be, what could be. Heart of Jesus, guide us in your way. Heart of Jesus, bind our hearts to yours.
Walking alongside a beach, the sand is smooth and the waves gentle, like ripples in a lake, pond, or puddle. The path is peaceful and seemingly continuous, until the disruption up ahead; a trench created by water draining back toward the ocean. The chasm is too large to jump across, and there’s no way around it. Or at least no way to get to the other side without having to come off the beach and onto the cracked, uneven sidewalk, stepping through the cold water, or trudging down into and through the muddy-like sand. Pausing to ponder… how best to make it through what seems like the great divide?
In looking to the Gospel passage for the Second Sunday of Lent, Peter says, “Lord, it is good we are here.” This is because he recognizes the moment as a sacred one; something greater is happening here, and we need to take heed and behold it. As he continues speaking, the bright cloud appears, a shadow is cast by it, and a voice says, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” With this, the environment shifts for Peter, James, and John, and their posture changes, but they still recognize the moment as sacred, “they fell prostrate.”
As we try to navigate this world, it can be tempting to shy away, to want to hide, circumvent, or look the other way, and to carry on insulated from the chaos and division that swirls around us. Yet, faith calls us to face the shifting environment by placing our hope and trust in Jesus. Rather than losing heart, we are called to take on the heart of Jesus. And in doing so, even when the reality in front of us may be unpleasant or seem bleak, we are able to face it through the Light of God who helps us to know when and how to rise, and to recognize each moment in these turbulent times as being sacred; holding hope and promise. This is simply because, God is with us, making the dark clouds become bright and spreading light in the midst of darkness, even when, like Peter, James and John, we don’t see it coming.
Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with him. Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate and were very much afraid. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and do not be afraid.” And when the disciples raised their eyes, they saw no one else but Jesus alone.
As they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, “Do not tell the vision to anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” – Mt 17:1-9
Covered with snow, the landscape so quiet, so still, so beautiful. The branches and shrubs become as if carefully wrapped, insulated from the elements, as well as by the elements. Becoming part of what’s on the outside pushing inward? Or, perhaps, it’s the outside becoming part of what’s inside and underneath, pushing outward? How will they lean, where will they fall, maybe, just maybe, they will stand upright, if anything at all.
A clean heart create for me, God; renew within me a steadfast spirit. – Ps 51:12
The Gospel for the First Sunday of Lent (Mt 4:1-11), is an account of the temptation of Jesus. We all experience variations of temptation throughout our lives. We all have weaknesses or tendencies that can lead us astray or take us away from being at or near our best, most genuine selves.
Looking to the example of Jesus, we can see his response to temptation, is first and foremost, to be aware and recognize it. Then second, to respond by remembering, and not only naming, but also reclaiming God as the source of all wellbeing. Jesus keeps God at the center throughout, and God’s grace enables him to overcome each temptation.
How can one apply this to real life experience in today’s world?
We can start by being aware and recognizing that temptation works in different ways. Sometimes it tries to move us toward “absolute” or limited views and the choices that flow from them, while at other times, temptation seeks to blur the lines between choices so that the best choice is left behind for the choice that seems good enough. Temptation tries, and keeps trying to find whatever hook will sink, to snag and pull one toward a more self-centered space and making a choice from there, instead of making it from a God-centered space where the choice is generative and beneficial beyond what one can surmise.
In the Gospel passage of the temptation of Jesus, Jesus shows us how to lean on the grace of God, and how to patiently endure to overcome temptation by living with God at the center—always in our hearts and minds. He reminds us that what has been written, holds true now, as well as forever.
One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God. – Dt 8:3
He will command his angels concerning you and with their hands they will support you, lest you dash your foot against a stone. – Ps 91:11-12
You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test. – Dt 6:16
The Lord, your God, shall you worship and him alone shall you serve. – Dt 6:13
Reflecting on each of Jesus’s responses above, what comes to mind in terms of your own experience of God’s grace in the face of a struggle or challenge you faced? Recall how God was present to you, and how you were, or became present to God? Share with God what that experience was like, and what it means to you today. What inspiration or insight might God want that experience to reveal to you today?
Stepping out on an overcast night, part of the sky is aglow. It’s as if the moon, in its fullest state, is straining to be seen through the clouds. When, in actuality, the moon, in its fullest state, authentic as can be, is not held back by the clouds. Neither are we.
In chapter 5 of the Gospel According to Matthew, it is written, “Jesus said to his disciples: ‘I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.’” (v. 20).
While the scribes and Pharisees were learned and appeared to be fastidious in their commitment to God and practice of the laws, many of them were missing the most important piece of the law. That is, the need to serve with love, compassion, and mercy. Without these components, an oath becomes empty words, the law loses its integrity, and hearts become self-righteous rather than righteous.
Jesus brings fulfillment through his authenticity. He doesn’t just talk about the Way, but he also lives it, inviting us to join him, and enabling us to strive toward love, compassion, and mercy, in all we do, while also being accountable. And when we accept the invitation, at the end of the day, not even the clouds or darkness hold us back.
“Love makes your soul crawl out from its hiding place.” ― Zora Neale Hurston
Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the kingdom of heaven. I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.
“You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment. But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; and whoever says to his brother, ‘Raqa,’ will be answerable to the Sanhedrin; and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ will be liable to fiery Gehenna. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court. Otherwise your opponent will hand you over to the judge, and the judge will hand you over to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Amen, I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny.
“You have heard that it was said, You shall not commit adultery. But I say to you, everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body thrown into Gehenna. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body go into Gehenna.
“It was also said, Whoever divorces his wife must give her a bill of divorce. But I say to you, whoever divorces his wife – unless the marriage is unlawful – causes her to commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.
“Again you have heard that it was said to your ancestors, Do not take a false oath, but make good to the Lord all that you vow. But I say to you, do not swear at all; not by heaven, for it is God’s throne; nor by the earth, for it is his footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. Do not swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. Let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ mean ‘No.’ Anything more is from the evil one.”
From a young age, one is often taught to pay attention to the weather. When you hear thunder, go inside as rain, wind, and lightning may be near or approaching, if not already there. If there are heavy winds and/or lightning, stay inside and away from the windows, and so on. When there’s snow or sleet, beware of the road conditions—stay home. Most of what is taught about stormy weather is about actively retreating or staying put for one’s own well-being. Yet, sometimes, these efforts can instill fear and anxiety as the motivators for one’s actions.
Considering the state of, or conditions in the world today, the feeling or thought that we are in stormy times, both literally and figuratively, is palpable for so many. At times, it can lead one to retreat or stay put, shrinking, or turning away from active participation in the larger world. And while a certain amount of self-preservation can be good, withdrawal serves one and all best, not only when it is temporary, but also when one is intentional in how that time away is spent, and the choices and actions that result from it.
So, while the times may be stormy, perhaps the storm is perfect. Perfect for taking a step back and noticing for what one’s heart beats. Perfect for contemplating where one is, and where one is moved to be. Perfect for retreating to prayer and reflecting on what the world needs, one’s openness to the invitations of Grace that await, whether amid the storm, on its edges, or in an entirely different relation, and one’s desire to become more aware of what active participation in this stormy world might mean on a personal level, as well as how these storms can be overcome by being held as a meeting place for Jesus.
We often think or speak of the calm after the storm, and it often seems easier to appreciate the beauty of the sun after a rainstorm, or the snow-covered trees when removed from the threat and possible dangers of the driving winds and snow. However, Jesus tells us that he is with us always. Thus, the calm never ceases. It’s up to us though, to nurture our deepest, truest desires, to strive to invite peace into each situation, and to choose to not only look for, but to also navigate in, with, and through Grace. In doing so, we stay connected, our retreating or staying put remains temporary, and brings forth fruit that is lasting. Fruit that is ordained by God, bringing us back into the fold, with greater life, and as unconquered hearts whose actions flow from, and glorify God, and all creation.
Give me, O Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy affection may drag downwards; give me an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out; give me an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside. Bestow on me also, O Lord my God, understanding to know you, diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you, and faithfulness that may finally embrace you, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. – St. Thomas Aquinas
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” – Mt 5:1-12
In the process of growing up, a sense of right and wrong forms within. It’s based upon lessons learned, whether explicitly taught to one or gleaned from experiences. This sense is accompanied by the development of principles as well as the assignment of value to people, places, and things. Oftentimes this process is impacted not only by one’s immediate environment, but also by one’s community, the broader society, and perhaps, the happenings throughout the world as well. It’s human nature, after all, to derive meaning and to be affected by one’s surroundings and the people, places, and things, to which one is exposed. Hence the saying that one is known by one’s companions.
In chapter one of the First Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians, Paul is imploring the Corinthians to be united in the Lord rather than torn apart by their differences. How poignant for the times we live in today. The wisdom of this Bible passage speaks to us today just as the letter of St. Paul did to the Corinthians. Warning them, and us, that continuing on a path with such great division, serves only to unravel us, and that it is only through unity that we can overcome such a fate. So how do we move toward greater unity?
Most importantly, as St. Paul suggests, we need to return to the truth. Underneath all that divides us, and at the core of all that we are, and all that we can be, is the fact that our meaning and purpose comes from something far greater than any one person or group could ever encompass. We need to recognize when we are being pulled away and distracted from this truth, and to remove ourselves from partaking in any movements that seek to undermine honesty and integrity, in any way. The “win at all costs” mentality that seems so pervasive and accepted in society, needs to be challenged.
This is what St. Paul is talking about when he writes about there being rivalries and urges the people to stop thinking of themselves as belonging solely to one identity over another. This is what causes the great divide, and serves to scatter us, undoing the power and potential of unity.
When we move through the influence of our Oneness, see our differences as being ordained by God, and use them as the bond of perfection that they can be, we are able to come together in ways that value, serve, and work to benefit all of creation, and that give glory to God. When we trust the longings of true love and follow the example of Jesus, pride, prejudice, status, and exclusivity fall away and the unity that results brings greater—lasting—meaning and purpose to our lives than we could ever achieve on our own or within any segment of society seeking its own good over the good of all.
Paul writes, “For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with the wisdom of human eloquence, so that the cross of Christ might not be emptied of its meaning.”
“The wisdom of human eloquence” would encourage one to find and stay with those around whom one feels most comfortable and identifies most closely. St. Paul is saying, don’t be fooled. He is saying, seek to be in the company of the Lord. Identify, first and foremost, with the Lord, so that you may experience redemption and your life may have direction and meaning that extend beyond the narrow confines of human understanding.
Reflect and pray:
When you contemplate the company you keep, what are some of the values or meaning you derive from your relationship with God and others? Where, and in what ways, do you experience unity?
As you go about your day or your week, what kind of companion are you?
How do expectations come into play with regards to your ability for companionship? And in what ways do you see the Lord as companioning you and vice versa?
When you reflect on the notion of an invitation to be a companion of the Lord awaiting you in all circumstances, what is your reaction or response?
I urge you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree in what you say, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and in the same purpose. For it has been reported to me about you, my brothers and sisters, by Chloe’s people, that there are rivalries among you. I mean that each of you is saying, “I belong to Paul,” or “I belong to Apollos,” or “I belong to Cephas,” or “I belong to Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with the wisdom of human eloquence, so that the cross of Christ might not be emptied of its meaning. – 1 Cor 1:10-13, 17
Into the night and all day too, The glow of lights sprinkled here and there, but really, almost everywhere. This peace, this joy, ever present, Sometimes noticed more than others, Sometimes not at all, Nevertheless, a presence always there. The heart, holding all together, Ups and downs, yeas and nays, Judgments, and lessons learned. Steady in the flow of life, Brave but never brazen. Standard bearer, but more, Usher of truth and light. There through it all, From year to year, And age to age.
Holy Spirit, help us turn the page, As the bells ring, And a new year begins, Renew our listening, Renew our resolve. Show us love, Show us kindness. Bring us peace, Bring us newness. Help us to work with Grace, To change what we need to change, And to carry hope, wherever we go. Help us, bit by bit, to turn our world around.
May God be gracious to us and bless us; may God’s face shine upon us. – Psalm 67:2
Approaching the intersection of two busy streets, cones and temporary stop signs come into view, and then fallen lines disrupting service to the traffic lights that normally direct cars safely from one side to the other. It’s interesting how in driving or using other forms of transportation, one not only learns to look for signs, but also to be guided by them in reaching destinations safely.
Similarly, as one journeys through life, guidance comes, and prayers are often answered through signs, coming in various forms of interaction with God and others. Sometimes, in both times of light and times of darkness, whether personal or societal, it can be easy to miss signs, lose sight of, or take for granted, experiences of grace. The scripture readings throughout Advent and Christmas, remind us of God’s faithfulness and guiding presence, especially to Mary and Joseph, leading up to and beyond the birth of Jesus.
Through allowing or inviting God to be the source of their path and the sustenance of their hope, Mary and Joseph were not only drawn into their God-given purpose, but they were also led all the way through to its fulfillment… teaching us that the path can be difficult, the road uncertain, but that there can also be great joy when we embrace the spirit of Christmas—a heart full of light, and hope in the Lord.
All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God. – Psalm 98:3c
A Christmas Prayer: Lord, help me to remember your faithfulness, and to be open to the signs and guidance you place along my path. Turn my gaze always toward you, Emmanuel, as the source of all hope, that my heart may faithfully embrace the spirit of Christmas all year long, leading me to notice and appreciate the beauty and goodness of all creation, and the heart and soul of those I encounter each day.
Literally, the second the light turns green, horns are honking. Sometimes, it is from cars two or three deep in line! Imagine if instead of cars on the roads, it was just people, single file, moving on foot. Stop or go to the rhythm of the traffic lights. Perhaps it would be more like the game musical chairs than the one named “Simon Says,” but in today’s world, likely more dangerous, and certainly far more intense.
While in situations like driving, signs of impatience can be much easier to spot, at other times it can be harder to see when patience is absent or slipping away. The second reading for the Third Sunday of Advent (Jas 5:7-10), begins with, “Be patient, brothers and sisters.” It seems so fitting that during one of the busiest times of the year for many people, these verses in the Letter of James contain a form of the word, and urges patience four times, once each in three out of the four verses. And, as for the one verse that doesn’t use the word, it calls us to ponder one of the ways that human beings tend to handle displeasure with one another (“Do not complain, brothers, about one another, that you may not be judged.” – v.9).
Think of a recent experience where you were on the receiving end of your own or someone else’s impatience or displeasure. What happened? And what judgments were involved?
Now, think of a recent experience where you were the one responding with impatience or displeasure. What was going on? And what opinions or beliefs were involved?
In each situation, how might an increase of your own patience have improved the situation or the aftermath of it?
When pausing to think of recent experiences where patience was lacking or displeasure arose, on someone else’s part or on your part, which experience was easier to recall? Which experience came to mind more quickly?
It can be tempting to see patience in terms of something someone has or does not have. However, like any other attribute, it’s possible for it to exist in some situations and not in others. This is important because oftentimes it can be easy to think, “I’m patient,” or “I’m…” this or that based on a small sampling of situations that one’s ego might readily serve up to “pass the test” and move us along from further introspection and possibly attaining additional growth and greater freedom; things that are impossible without honestly looking across and considering the spectrum of one’s life experiences.
An Advent Prayer: Lord, help me to allow you to direct the pace of each day. Through my stopping and going, and all that may occur between, may my actions and responses reflect grace and genuine patience and understanding that flows from you, regardless of what I may or may not receive in return. And help me to continue to look to you, that you may grant me the grace to notice and appreciate the beauty and goodness of all creation, and the heart and soul of those I encounter each day.
Be patient, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. You too must be patient. Make your hearts firm, because the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not complain, brothers and sisters, about one another, that you may not be judged. Behold, the Judge is standing before the gates. Take as an example of hardship and patience, brothers and sisters, the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. – James 5:7-10
HopeThatFloats 
You must be logged in to post a comment.