Let us remember lent is a season of hope

As we journey through this Lenten season, we are called to reflect deeply on our faith, our actions, and our relationship with God. During this time of contemplation, todays’ two Scripture passages offer profound insights into the themes of justice, compassion, and trust.

Jeremiah 17:5-10 presents a prophetic contrast between trust in human strength and trust in God. The imagery of a shrub in the desert versus a tree planted by water highlights the importance of rooting ourselves in God's ways rather than relying solely on worldly means. Through a Jesuit perspective, we are challenged to reflect on where we place our trust and allegiance. Do we put our faith in human systems and structures, or do we trust in God's justice and mercy? Lent calls us to reorient our hearts toward God, seeking righteousness and working for systemic change that reflects God's vision of a more just and equitable world.

In Luke 16:19-31, Jesus tells the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. The blatant contrast between the lavish lifestyle of the rich man and the poverty of Lazarus serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of caring for the marginalized and vulnerable among us. As we contemplate this passage through a Jesuit lens of social justice, we are called to examine our own lives and ask ourselves: How do we use our resources and privilege? Are we actively working to dismantle systems of injustice and inequality? Lent invites us to align our actions with the values of justice, compassion, and solidarity, following the example of Jesus who showed us love through service to others.

Reflecting on these Scripture passages and the Jesuit values of social justice brings to mind a transformative moment from my own life, one that occurred during a family trip when I was just seven years old.

We were dining at a restaurant in the heart of the city, we were sitting outside enjoying the beautiful night. A homeless woman approached the restaurant, begging for food. I remember feeling a mix of emotions—disgust, fear, and confusion. She smelled of hardship, and her appearance was unkempt. In my young mind, she seemed like a stranger from a different world.

But what happened next would stay with me forever. Despite my apprehension, my mother called the woman over to our table. I pleaded with her not to, but my mother's compassion knew no bounds. She asked the woman for her name and engaged her in conversation, treating her with dignity and respect.

My mother didn't simply offer money; instead, she offered to buy the woman food and kept calling her by her first name, recognizing her humanity in a world that often overlooks the marginalized. In that moment, I witnessed love and compassion extended to a complete stranger, and it left an indelible mark on my young heart.

As I reflect on this experience, I'm reminded of the importance of seeing beyond appearances and extending kindness to all. My mother's actions exemplified the values of justice, compassion, and solidarity that lie at the heart of the Jesuit tradition. May we all be inspired to follow her example, reaching out to those in need with love and empathy, regardless of our differences.

In the midst of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving, let us remember that Lent is ultimately a season of hope. It is a time to deepen our connection with God and to recommit ourselves to building a world where all are treated with dignity and respect. May these Lenten reflections inspire us to action, as we strive to live out the values of the Gospel in our communities and beyond.

Author: Jose Aquino, Theology Department