Monday of the First Week of Lent March 1, 2004 Scripture: Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18; Matthew 25:31-46 Reflection: Lent, and indeed our everyday, centers on two words: Be holy. It sounds so simple, yet it opens doors to challenge our relationship with God and one another. These two words encompass our entire spiritual journey; they center our purpose, define our mission, and strengthen our resolve. Being holy is hard work. While walking with Jesus can be affirming and life giving, often times it takes determination rooted in deep faith. It takes a willingness to deepen our intimate personal relationship with God. It takes comfort in allowing God to whittle away at our shortcomings, taking risks to face our true selves. It takes a deep conviction in our focus on God as our center and our reason. How easy it is to be thrown off course by events or words or situations. Sometimes we blame God that the road to holiness gets crooked. We ask, “Why?” as if we do not know the answer. We look on the suffering Jesus and fail to find ourselves. And, most important of all, we do not recognize the hand of God as it reaches out to hold our own. Truly, we never journey to holiness alone. God is always there. God always supports. God always leads. God gives holiness. Suggested Action: Be aware today of all the ways that God beckons to the holy. With open hands and heart accept the invitation to draw closer to the Beloved – to be holy! Sr. Nancy Elder, IHM Gainesville, Florida