We journey in hope. This is what I learned during a Lenten retreat I attended with fellow priests this past week. As we journey, we look forward to God’s promise that, in the end, everything will be well. Although we may be experiencing difficult times now, we never lose our faith in God, who will set all things right. He will restore order, peace, and justice to our world, punishing those who have brought misery and sorrow into people’s lives, while restoring joy and harmony among all. This is the God our forefathers believed in: the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.
In this Sunday’s First Reading for the Third Sunday of Lent (Exodus 3:1-8, 13-15), He is the God whom Moses encountered through the burning bush. His name is “I AM WHO AM,” which signifies that He is dynamically, continually, and unceasingly involved in our lives. God journeyed with the Israelites from their slavery in Egypt, through their long years in the desert, to the Promised Land. He would continue to accompany them until the coming of the Promised Messiah, His Son Jesus, who became human to share in their suffering, liberate them from the bondage of sin and death, and be the hope, joy, and life for all future generations.
As we navigate difficult, challenging, confusing, and demoralizing times, it’s easy for us to grumble like our forefathers did, losing hope in humanity and the world. This is part of the journey, but we must remember the blessings that God granted us in the past and cultivate gratitude for the small joys we experience in the present. There are still beautiful things happening around us; there are still caring and kind individuals who wish us well and work together to uphold peace, justice, and prosperity in this world.
We must continue to nurture trees that bear the fruits of love, mercy, compassion, empathy, care, and kindness. We must root out anything that deprives people of their human dignity, and we must remain steadfast in our fight against corruption and greed.
Within our hearts and consciences, we must listen to the voice of Jesus, who taught us and exemplified radical love, forgiveness, mercy, and service. This voice also reminds us that life is short, so we must be prepared for sudden death by remaining reconciled with God at all times. Thus, a healthy fear of God is necessary to achieve the peace of knowing that He has reserved a place for us in heaven.
During this Lent, may we journey in hope, knowing that God is at our side, accompanying, encouraging, and strengthening us as we move towards what is good, beautiful, just, and honorable.
In Christ’s love,
Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas