Thursday of the Second Week of Lent

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“Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose hope is the LORD” (Jeremiah 17:7).

The line above is found in today’s first reading and aside from finding it interesting, I also find it to be the main idea of the reading, psalm, and gospel. Lent to me is a time in which we find ourselves but also a time in which we strengthen our bond with God.

Many today argue that science and religion are not compatible but, I believe otherwise. During these times in which we find ourselves, we have lost many loved ones. Personally, I lost a family friend due to COVID-19, but I have also gained hope. My mom always says that without God, Doctors would not exist today, and I honestly agree. Many have seen the pandemic as an obstacle to living life freely, but it has also been a time for us to reflect on what we truly value. For me it has been my faith.

Day by day I pray for a scientific advancement to find a cure not just for COVID-19 but for all of the illnesses that still have no cure. The reason I mention this is because, from what I was able to grasp from the reading, psalm and gospel is that those who place their hope in God, will be prosperous and those who do not will have the same amount of luck. When I found out that my friend had passed away, I was truly devastated, but then I was informed that he had died in peace with himself having hope that God was taking him so that he would no longer suffer. When I heard that, I felt a bit more relieved, but I also thought to myself that I had gained a guardian angel to look over and protect me.

That is why I want to say that although we all have our bad days and moments, there will always be a positive result to that. Yes, we may be mad that we do not have the same amount of freedom as before but, sooner or later we will one day be free to hug one another and travel because God never gives us an obstacle that we cannot overcome. All we need to do is remain positive and not lose hope. God bless you all.

Nieves Martinez, SFC '24