Source: Daily Reflections for Lent Not by Bread Alone 2014 by Robert F. Morneau I wanted to share today’s Lenten reading and how it struck deeply in my life. Some friends are on this journey, too, so heres to comfort you. Readings: Ezek 47:1-9; John 5:1-16 Scripture: Now that day was a Sabbath. So the Jews said to the man who was cured, “It is the Sabbath, and it is not lawful for you to carry your mat.” (John 5:9b-10) Reflection: Some mats are heavy, so much so that a single individual might not be able to bear it. And when that person has been sick for thirty-eight years, the likelihood of sufficient strength is in doubt. We are speaking here not about the weight of a physical mat, but the burdens that life imposes on some individuals. One of the deepest forms of suffering on our long journey is the absence of companionship, especially during serious physical illness, psychological pain, or spiritual dryness. As social beings, we need the support of others at these times. Traveling alone is a dangerous affair, for if we fall, there is no one else there to help us up. Jesus had special concern for those on the margins, for those who were alienated from society, who knew the anxiety of utter loneliness. With empathy, he entered their lives and offered them his compassion and love. He reaffirmed their dignity and helped them to “reconnect” to the larger community. The person Jesus cured of leprosy experienced this, as did the person in today’s gospel. “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool/when the water is stirred up” (John 5:7a) There are few words more painful than “I have no one!”. In the Denial of Death, Ernest Becker writes, “The most terrifying burden of the creature is to be isolated, which is what happens in individuation: one separates himself out of the herd.” By contrast, the most intense joy comes in communication with others and with God. Meditation: What has been your experience of “individuation”? Can loneliness have a positive side? Who cares for you; whom do you care for? Prayer: Compassionate Jesus, help us to understand the depth of human loneliness, both within ourselves and others. Do not let busyness or trivial entertainment block us from getting in touch with our true selves. May we experience time and time again your indwelling Spirit and realize that we are never alone.
Posted on: Tue, 01 Apr 2014 20:41:36 +0000
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