Thursday of the Third Week
The Lord is always with us, though we often choose not to see. We may often bemoan the troubles or the tragedies we see in the world and in our lives, we may wonder to ourselves where the Lord could be. We may find it more difficult to reflect on our blessings, reflect on the beautiful and good things of Creation, reflect on the ways in which the Lord continues to bless us and be present to us. This disconnect is not new in salvation history. The Prophet Jeremiah writes that even in his day, people were turning from the Lord, not listening to the Divine voice, not heeding the prophets that God had sent to work among the people. Sadly, with all the difficulties of the world, we also may find it tempting to question the purpose and meaning behind some of what we see.
Jesus himself encountered difficulty with some of the people. Seen in Luke’s Gospel performing a miraculous deed, there are those that say he is only able to drive out demons because he must be evil himself. Jesus’ response is an important lesson for us: kingdoms divided against themselves will not stand. Evil does not drive away evil: only good can do that, and goodness comes from the Divine. In our own Lenten journeys, we are called to look for the glimmers of goodness in our lives and in our world, and to reflect on how they are tangible signs of God’s presence in our lives and in our hearts. Having walked among us, God continues to guide us, and will always serve as a light in the darkness.
Prayer
O Lord of Light, help us to always see the beauty of your works in our lives and in our world. When troubles surround us, let us turn to your presence and seek your peace. Amen.
Fr. Michael Carter, '12, Religious Studies
First Reading: Jeremiah 7:23-28
Psalm 95:1-2, 6-9
Gospel: Luke 11:14-23
