2nd Week of Lent
Blessed the man . . . (Psalm 1:1)
We all know what it's like to have our daily routines disrupted by the unexpected—coffee spilled on our shirt just as we're walking into the office, coming down with the flu and having to stay home, a refrigerator that breaks down. In the end, things work out, but you could have done without the lost time and the added frustration!
Today's readings hit on a similar point. They tell us how we can best prepare for the unexpected: by staying close to the Lord and meditating on his ways.
In the first reading, Jeremiah cautions against finding our strength in flesh (Jeremiah 17:5). It's the one who trusts "in the Lord" who is blessed, not necessarily the person with a million Plan Bs (17:7). Then the responsorial psalm tells us that the person who "delights in the law of the Lord" receives a special blessing (Psalm 1:2). Finally, in the Gospel, Jesus tells a story about the rich man and Lazarus. Of all the people in the parables that Jesus tells, Lazarus is the only one to whom he gives a name—a name that means "God is my help." Lazarus, while materially poor, was spiritually rich because as his name suggests, he trusted that God would help him. And God did!
So are you blessed or cursed? You are blessed! The simple fact that you are reading this meditation right now shows that you are prayerful, that you want to ponder the Scriptures, and that you are seeking the Lord. At the same time, however, each of us has an element of the other type of person still at work in us. Trusting in God isn't a onetime deccision; it's a choice that we need to renew daily so that we can keep enjoying his blessing.
When things are going well for you, tell God, "Thank you!" When an unexpected trial comes your way, cry out, "Jesus, I trust you!" With each declaration, your faith will grow, and your heart will become more peaceful. With God at the center of your life, you will remain grounded, rooted, and safe—just like a tree that is "planted near running water" (Psalm 1:3).
"Father, thank you that no matter what happens, I can lean on you for support. Help me to see all the ways I can practice trusting in you today."
Psalm 1:1-4, 6
Luke 16:19-31
Daily Marriage Tip for February 25, 2016:
Love is not proud. Be the first to extend the olive branch when disagreements arise.