#39 Lenten Reflections
Our kids played a game named Alligator Swamp around the house where they tossed pillows (lily pads) one by one in front of one another as they stepped on them making a trail of safety for themselves. They had to keep one foot on the lily pad before they stepped on the next and would coach each other to be careful not to fall into the dark marsh of chomping alligators. If they toppled into the swamp they lost one of the lily pads and the trek was harder. They would play this all over the house as a team, helping each other stay balanced and buoyant.
Sounds crazy, but I thought of this while in church, mesmerized by the Stations of the Cross. Jesus falling, getting up, taking more steps forward. Someone stops to wipe his face, give him water, help him carry the load, and stay sure-footed. Of course, unlike in the Alligator Swamp game, there is unrelenting humiliation, pressure, and exaltation, yet Jesus finds grace and calm through all of it. Classic Jesus. He prays, He forgives, He loves.
My mom always says Good Friday is the one day we attend “services”, not “Mass”. Because today there are no miracles of water turning into wine, or blind finding their sight. There are no sermons or parables, no abundance of loathes and fishes.
This weekend, reflect on all the hardships and loneliness you are experiencing. Know that deep in your soul, a rock will be pushed aside and reveal the strength you need to persevere and rise again.
Thanks for joining me,
❤️Lucretia
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