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SURRENDER

Reflection by Sister Bernice Lindsey, OSB

Then they came to a place named Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” He took with him Peter, James, and John, and began to be troubled and distressed. Then he said to them, “My soul is sorrowful even to death. Remain here and keep watch.” He advanced a little and fell to the ground and prayed that if it were possible the hour might pass by him; he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible to you. Take this cup away from me, but not what I will but what you will.” When he returned he found them asleep. He said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour?” (Mark 14:32-37)

When Jesus prayed these words, he was unconditionally surrendering his life to his Father. Was he scared? You bet. He had already told his disciples, “My soul is sorrowful even to death.” He knew from prior events in his life that there were those who did not like what he stood for, what he preached, etc.

Wednesday, February 17th, is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten season (40 days, not including Sundays). This is a period of time for Christians to recall and replicate the 40 days our Lord spent in the desert, praying, fasting and being tempted by Satan.

A time of quieting oneself down, praying, fasting, and doing penitence for times we failed to be the person our God calls us to be. We have all been through a tough year with the Covid-19 pandemic, political discord, global unrest, and so much more.

As February begins, we have just over two weeks until Ash Wednesday, the start of the Lenten season. Take this time to quietly review your lifestyle and the interior of your heart. Then ask yourself from the depth of your heart:

  • What does the Lenten season mean to me?
  • Where is God calling me this Lenten season at this time in my life?
  • What is it He may be asking me to surrender?
  • How willing am I to surrender?

Are you fearful of what God may ask of you?

Are you willing to say, “Not my will, but Your will be done in me”?

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