Marist Brothers Novitiate community – reflection series for Lent
During this Lenten season, the Marist Brothers Novitiate community is sponsoring a weekly written reflection series.
Each week, a member of the Marist College community will share their reflection on a scripture from the readings of the week.
The reflection from this week was written by Michelle Khawam, a Campus Minister at Marist College.
A WORD HAS BEEN SENT
There is no doubt that Tuesday’s first reading from Isaiah (found here) is about the Word of God. In verse 11 God says: “So shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth…” The word of God comes to us from heaven. The word of God is also the seed that plants itself here on earth and it is up to us to water it, to “make it fertile and fruitful” so that others may be nourished by it.
We not only learn from reading Scripture but we also gain life. Lent is the perfect time to dive into Scripture. Sometimes as Christians we can to forget to pick up our Bible, read, pray, and study with Scripture. Sometimes people are intimidated by the Bible; they get confused and are not sure how to read and pray with it.
Consider starting a Bible Study with your friends, co-workers, or family members. Pick up a commentary book or find a commentary online to help you understand the readings a bit more. Try different Scripture reading methods like Lectio Divina. Pick up a daily devotional book from the book store! Whatever makes you most comfortable! Reading and praying with Scripture should not cause you stress or anxiety, but rather hope and joy.
God sends us his Word to reveal Himself to us, to bring us to faith, and to bring us to eternal life so that we may have fullness of joy. How will you pray with Scripture during this Lenten season?
Michelle Khawam is a Campus Minister at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY.
If you want to go deeper with this reflection, check out our Going Deeper page