Tuesday of the Fourth Week

Reflection

The image of Ezekiel’s river is striking to me; not for its miraculous origins, but for what I think it represents. We know from Matthew’s Gospel that at the heart of our Christian community is a simple gathering of two or more people (Matthew 18:19-20). Anyone who’s hiked into the mountains has also probably observed that you can’t have a stream (or a river) without the gathering of two or more drops of water. In this light, I’d like to think that Ezekiel’s angel was foretelling of the growth of the Christian community in the coming ages. Forget cubits of distance; instead think cubits of time. First, there was just a small trickle representing the first disciples, then followed the early church, through which the Romans tried to wade against the current. Today, at more than a billion strong, we are a flowing, unstoppable river of Christian people around the world looking to feed, house, and nourish those around us.

In this light, I also believe Ezekiel’s river should remind us of a few things as we progress through Lent. First, we are not alone. During Lent, we can often retreat and obsess in self-examination. Let’s remember that there are other “drops” around us who can help us on our journey. Second, let us be the nourishing water of the Lord. Let our actions during Lent, and throughout the year, be acts of mercy, service, comfort, and compassion. Finally, let’s remember that we are on a journey together as a community. Just as Ezekiel’s river flows from God’s temple to the valley, let us remember that we were formed by God and we will all eventually return to Him.

Prayer

Dear Lord, just as my baptism in holy water brought me into spiritual life with You; use me and my spiritual gifts to water and nourish those around me. 

Chad Ahern, ’99, M’12, Donor Relations Officer

Scripture

First Reading: Ezekiel 47: 1-9, 12

Psalm 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9

Gospel: John 5:1-16

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website