Have you noticed how often, an account of Jesus' teaching starts with the words “He answered them and said”. A good many years ago, I did my own research and came up with 21 times he said this. That may not be accurate, but what this tells me is that Jesus' teaching was very much a response to people's questions. Have you any questions you would like to ask him? Lent should be a growing time. What better way to grow in the spirit than to ask questions. Of course finding the answers is not so easy. It may take longer to find the answers but if we are really seeking, I guarantee we will grow and probably stretch out in more directions than we thought possible.
The first place we turn is to the Scriptures. Some will need more help than others. Join a Bible Study group. You will meet people there who are also on a quest. What about books? How many over the years have you taken out of the parish library or the public library?
If there is no group which fits into your timetable, ask a friend to join you or a family member. Ask questions of anyone who might help. You may even open up their minds and spirits too.
One of the most rewarding things to do at Lent is to take on a project, volunteer at church, perhaps at a school, food bank or to some individual who needs a helping hand, a drive, shopping or just a friendly visit. You may soon realize you are opening up a new world which may not end when Lent is over. We may have gained new skills, made new friends and gained more knowledge. We should feel we have arrived at a new place in our life from which we will go forward not back: onto something more interesting, more alive.
Above all, let us enter into his presence in prayer. Let us feel his arms around about us, upholding us and giving us strength.
Isaiah 40:31
But those who wait for the lord shall renew their strength,
They shall mount up with wings like eagles
They shall run and not be weary
They shall walk and not fain
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