Straight are the paths of the Lord, in them the just walk, but sinners stumble in them.
Hosea 14:10
Day 24: Friday of the Third Week of Lent – Hosea 14:10(b)
Straight are the paths of the Lord, in them the just walk, but sinners stumble in them.
Additional Reading(s) today: Mark 12:28-34
Today’s Lenten Reflection
If you’ve ever gone hiking, you know that the straight path forward isn’t necessarily the easy or the right path. A steep incline ahead can leave you gasping for breath. Rocks and fallen logs can require tricky maneuvering. An unexpected stream may mean you have to turn back completely. The paths of the Lord mentioned in today’s first reading call to mind those challenging paths. We know how it feels to stumble in the midst of what feels like wide-open stretches of ease. We have all experienced that moment when our sure footing is pulled out from under us and we find ourselves in darkness, hands out in front, praying for God’s help. Oftentimes when we find ourselves in this state it is because we have lost our close connection to God. It could be that we are not making time for prayer — a key factor in being able to walk the narrow path without losing our way. Maybe we’re not loving God with our whole mind and heart, or we’re not putting Him first as we are challenged to do in today’s Gospel message. When we don’t put God as a top priority, it is usually because we’re putting ourselves first. We’re caught up in the world and in our own drama and “do-it-ourself” plans. That is when the fog rolls in and the incline begins to feel insurmountable. But if we follow the map laid out for us in Scripture, we will, slowly but surely, regain our footing and move forward on the narrow path — the only path that leads to the promised land.
Day 24 Lenten Meditation
When was the last time you were on a path out in nature? Was it difficult or easy? Were there any challenging moments? This Lent, ask yourself: What spiritual mountain am I scaling right now? Take a fresh look at the path ahead of you. Are you on the narrow path? Are you allowing God to lead the way or are you deciding the best way forward? Reassess the path you are currently on and make any necessary corrections in order to re-align with God’s will … even if it seems like the more challenging way forward.
Lenten Prayer
Walk with us, Lord, when the road ahead seems uncertain or difficult. Be our True North during times of confusion and fear. Lead us forward when difficulty makes us want to turn and run. Loving Father, grant that we may always trust in Your will and in Your love for us, and allow it to work in us and transform us. Amen.
Today’s suggested penance
*Fast from television or some other form of amusement (such as social media) for the next 24 hours
“A hidden flower is the most fragrant. I must strive to make the interior of my soul a resting place for the Heart of Jesus” –Sister Faustina.
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