Each week, as we journey through Lent, one of the Cabrini Lay Missionaries (CLM) will offer a reflection. For Ash Wednesday, the reflection is given by Lorraine Campanelli, CLM Director. Ash Wednesday is February 22nd.
Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday is the day we receive ashes and are reminded to “Repent and believe in the Good News.” When I think of these words, I think of the prophet Hosea. Although Hosea is often thought of as a ‘prophet of doom,’ he does try to help people see how they can be restored.
The name Hosea means salvation/deliverance. Hosea tried to preach that although there was destruction, there is always a promise that God will restore us. As a prophet, Hosea’s messages are about God’s anger with Israel and God’s impending judgment on the people. He points out the unfaithfulness of the people. He shows that they are worshipping other gods in addition to our Lord. Hosea also points out that those in authority should be condemned because their job was to lead the people in faithfulness, not lead them away. Hosea wanted all people to rely on God. He wanted to show the people that we all need to have an intimate relationship with God.
Reflection: Reflect on the lyrics of the song, ‘Hosea’ by Gregory Norbert. Spend time reflecting on God saying to you, “Come back to me with all your heart, don’t let fear keep us apart.”
What is keeping me from giving God my whole heart? Is it fear? What am I afraid of?
Reflect on God saying to you, “Long have I waited for your coming
home to me and living deeply our new life.”
Is God still waiting for you to return? Imagine what it would be like to live deeply with God in a new life.