DAILY DEVOTIONS:
Mar
6
‘Payment and Repayment’
Ash Wednesday
Your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you.
- Matthew 6:18
How will the Father “repay” me for my Lenten observances? What is in it for me?
Perhaps such questions seem out of order as a period of repentance begins. But if we don’t believe we are in need of anything from God, why bother going through the motions at all?
On the other hand, the “motions” of Lent–prayer, fasting and almsgiving–are not chits that we trade for certain benefits. Yes, prayer and reflection may deepen our self-awareness. Works of charity and devotion may help to renew our spirits. But what the Father sees are our deepest needs, needs so profound they may be hidden even from ourselves. Regardless of how we feel or what we know when the Sacred Triduum rolls around, the Father will certainly repay us, repay us in whatever coin we need most, according to his will.
Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit this Lent.
- Mark Neilsen
About Author
