As we journey through each week of Lent, one of our Cabrini Lay Missionaries (CLM) will share a reflection with us. Lorraine Campanelli offers her thoughts on Ash Wednesday.
Ash Wednesday
I love the season of Lent because it allows us the time to stop and look within ourselves to see ‘what am I really about.’ Of course, I love the season of Advent and Christmas but, unfortunately, I find myself getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season. Lent, however, allows me time to breathe.
In the Gospel for Ash Wednesday (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18), Jesus tells us not to be ‘out there’ with others performing righteous deeds but rather, be alone, reflect, breathe. Jesus tells us that when we give alms, do it in secret. No one needs to know what we are doing. Jesus even says, “Do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” That’s pretty secretive. When we pray, Jesus tells us to go to our inner room, close the door and pray in secret. When we fast, don’t look sad and gloomy but rather, wash your face and appear like you are not fasting. Jesus is inviting us to take time to be with Him. Imagine shutting off the world around us, even if it is for a brief period of time and just being with our Lord. ~ Lorraine Campanelli, CLM Director
Reflection:
When will I take alone time to just breathe and be with God?
Can I do this everyday? Jesus tells me to go into my inner room.
Is my inner room my heart? My soul?
What is God saying to me in those quiet moments