As we continue our Lenten journey, we remember that the resurrected Jesus didn’t come out of his tomb asking his disciples, “Where were you when I needed you?” Instead, Jesus left the tomb breathing mercy and forgiveness, and even asking those disciples who betrayed him, “Do you want something to eat?”

 This is the same approach Jesus assumes every Lent, with every follower.  It is all about love and compassion for his creation!  And Lent gives his followers the room to reflect on how we are loving God back and living the message that Jesus received from his father. Lent helps us regain our footing for the journey and to continue forward.

 God always smiles when he remembers our friendship.  He visualizes a scene describing how wonderful heaven will be when his creation arrives with joy and happiness in abundance.  God never forgets that “we are His people, and He is our God.”  There are no ifs, ands, or buts for God when it concerns us.  He stands ready to renew and refresh whenever we are.

 God continually hopes in us and looks for that happy moment when we get everything right.  He never tires of waiting and hoping.  If God has fingers, I’m sure he has them crossed.  God is the kind of God who places all others first.  Can we believe this?

 Jesus acted this way waiting for Peter to settle down as the first Pope, and Paul to see the light and become the famous missionary to the Gentiles.  Much in the same way, Jesus waits for us to see his light and that he offers all we need.

 However, God usually works in such quiet, small, and unseen ways that we can easily overlook his presence if we don’t pay attention. It’s truly a form of modern martyrdom to let go and allow Christ to increase in us and direct our thoughts and actions.  But this can only occur in our lives if our relationship with Christ is  strong and willing. Thus, Jesus hopes we pray more, be mindful of his presence, and be mindful of how Christ lives all around us!

 This is why God keeps giving us this annual Lenten fresh start.  He waits for us to make the one choice that truly matters – choosing Jesus His son. Seize this opportunity and embrace Jesus this Lent in a new way and truly make God’s day.

Painting: Salvador Mundi, (detail) Leonardo daVinci