Monday of the Fifth Week of Lent
The lengthy yet powerful story from the Book of the Prophet Daniel is worth further reflection. The two men who accused Susanna were enslaved to their passions and to the lies that they told themselves. Sadly, they were unable to live in the light of truth.
In the midst of the story, the characters communicate to us some profound spiritual truths.
We learn what leads to sin. Here is a three-fold formula for disaster for old men fall into: unguarded heart and eyes, suppression of one’s conscience, and a failure to pray in times of temptation. St. John Chrysostom wrote, “If no passion undermines and corrupts it, the soul will remain clean and unstained. But if he does not guard his eyes, and looks at whatever he wants around him in the world, the poison of desire will enter through a man’s sight and strike to the bottom of his heart; and he who was once a sober and modest man will be overwhelmed by a whirlwind of passions.” Part of living the Christian life means guarding our hearts from what might lead us away from God.
Secondly, Susanna teaches us a positive example by her wholehearted trust in God—whether we are in a distressing situation where we feel trapped, or even in discerning our vocation, we learn to entrust ourselves to God and call out in prayer. Susanna serves, for us, as a model of those who willingly and eagerly turn to God in need.
Lastly, Daniel shows us what it looks like to follow the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God will not allow to tolerate lies and injustice, but we will be able to expose falsehood with boldness and light. We have to listen attentively and cooperate with that spirit.
Jesus Christ is the true light, the light of the world, who dispels the darkness of our hearts—that by God’s grace, the greed, falsehood, lust, and other temptations may be banished so that we may experience the fruits of the spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Reflection by Fr. Paul Sheller, OSB
Posted in Articles for Lent, Daily Reflections, Lenten Resources