“A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.” - Psalm 51:17
Penance. It’s an interesting word that is in the center of our relationship with God, our father. I think as people we are always moving, there is always something waiting for us to get done. We live busy lives. I’ve excused my absence in my relationship with God by living a busy life. I’ve been moving at a fast pace just getting things done. Today's readings, especially the Responsorial Psalm, made me aware of how I’ve been too caught up with everything else that I’ve left amending my relationship with God up to a sign. A sign that will draw me back, knowing that God is forgiving and will accept me again.
Penance comes by becoming self-aware in the mind, heart and through action. It is our responsibility to take upon ourselves and seek that which we have wronged. God doesn’t abandon, and a sign is given just as he gave to the people of Nineveh, but it is up to us to take a moment from our busy lives and recognize it. I think during this time of Lent an opportunity is given for us to become aware. Each year during Lent, we seek God’s forgiveness with actions such as fasting or giving up something which we value. The true act of penance is going to God with a “heart contrite and humbled.” To me that means a heart aware of the wrongs it’s done and seeking that forgiveness.
I think that this comes not only with our relationship with God but with friend’s and family, too. Pride can sometimes get in the way of realizing the wrong we do, and it stops us from seeking forgiveness. It’s okay to be humble, it’s okay to say I’m sorry and to make up for it.
America Jimenez '21
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