There
is a great deal of hope in today’s very lengthy and deeply rich
readings. In each of the texts, we discover a focus on what it means to
be in relationship, in particular, relationship with God. It’s a
profound connection that is abundant with kindness, mercy, comfort,
guidance and love. The readings also move us towards the realization
that we do not function autonomously in this world. Without our relationships, we are empty and uninspired.
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| Without our relationships, we are empty and uninspired. |
Francis and Clare of Assisi were keenly attentive to the significance and merit of relationships in their lives. Their ministry was never isolated or cut off from the world, but rather completely embedded and aligned with others. They wisely and intentionally ordered their prayer lives and pastoral care within society, entrenched in human interaction, which in turn, reflected and embodied a synergy with the Divine. The Franciscan charism is one that values relationships; relationships that Francis and Clare recognized began with God and extended out in an embrace towards creation and with other people. Each of these relationships are fundamental to living a life of hospitality, mercy and love, and manifests and expresses the ultimate relationship, that with God.
So
as we journey through the season of Lent, a time when we metaphorically
retreat into the desert to contemplate, it is important to remember
that in our quiet withdrawal we are not entirely alone. This is a time
of prayer and discernment to contemplate our connections to one another,
a kinship with world in which we live and our affirming relationship
with God. We can’t truly state that we live out one of these bonds
without affirming that each is vital to what it means to examine the
beliefs and assumptions that shape our lives, contributing to being fully
human, absolutely alive and filled with grace.
-Anonymous
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