Lenten Reflection for February 20th

Mother Angelica was an American nun of the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration. She was the founder of the Catholic television network EWTN and was best known for hosting the television programme Mother Angelica Live. The television show was filled with reflection, wisdom and of course, humour. A quote I recently came across her saying on the show was, “It’s hard to love someone… you wish would slip on a banana peel.”

There are times when showing care and kindness to others will be a difficult task. There are times in our human nature, we won’t feel very agreeable to those who might frustrate us and test our patience. 

One aspect of the Spirit of Goodness is that we feel inspired to show kindness, mercy and compassion to those around us. To share a part of the goodness we have found through Christ with any we encounter.

Peter’s first epistle shares this reminder for us, “Like obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires that you formerly had in ignorance. Instead, as he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct; for it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”” (1 Peter 1:14-16)

When we experience and share goodness from God, given to us through the Spirit, it is transformed into a holiness which will transform not only ourselves, but the world around us. Especially when it is hard for us to do so and we show that kindness anyway.

Another poignant reminder from Mother Angelica,

“You think chocolate was the best thing you could ever give up for Christmas or for your Lent, rather? You know, that's not the point. Why don't you be sweet to you neighbour, see? Be a chocolate to your neighbour…I just thought of that, you know. But why not? Be a chocolate to your neighbour. Do something nice to the one you dislike so much.”

Let’s strive to pray to recognise the Goodness we have been shown, and to share it in each encounter we have.

God bless you!