SAINT TURIBIUS OF MOGROVEJO, BISHOP (OPTIONAL MEMORIAL)

I am about to create new heavens and a new earth. 

For most of us, the word “new” stirs up some excitement.   A new season, a new job, a new outfit—such things evoke feelings of anticipation and hope.   In today’s first reading (Isaiah 65:17-21) from the prophet Isaiah, God is promising the Israelites something truly new: a new creation!   Isaiah’s prophecy probably stirred up the same feelings of anticipation and excitement in the Israelites, who had been experiencing only defeat and destruction.   It gave them hope that something better than their current struggles would eventually come to pass.

We are about halfway through Lent.   Our Lenten sacrifices are meant to bear fruit in our lives and to give God the opportunity to do something new in us.   So today, think about what “new” things are happening in and around you.

As you spend time in prayer, perhaps you are experiencing a new or deeper relationship with the Lord.   You might find yourself feeling closer to him.   Maybe new thoughts come to mind—kinder or more compassionate thoughts or a deeper understanding of Scripture.   Maybe you are beginning to hear some new things that God is saying to you personally.

As you give alms, you may be experiencing a deeper trust in the Lord.   Perhaps you are able to be more generous, without fear of not having enough for yourself, or you are experiencing less worry about your finances or your future.

Through repentance and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, you may have gained a new sense of having been forgiven.   You may feel lighter after being released from the burden of guilt or shame.   You may also find yourself more able to forgive others.

Remember, God has already made you a new creation through his Son (2 Corinthians 5:17).   So be expectant during the second half of Lent and look for more of the “new” that the Lord is producing in you.   Believe that in the midst of your Lenten practices, his life is growing in you and new things are sprouting, even if you don’t see them right away.   Place your hope in the One who is always creating and re-creating, making all things new—including you.

“Father, help me to see the new life that you are producing in me.”

Psalm 30:2, 4-6, 11-13
John 4:43-54