Reflection for Friday of the Fourth Week of Lent
The Feast of Tabernacles marks the end of the harvest year in the fall on the Jewish calendar, and it also commemorates the time in history where the Israelites dwelt during their forty years of travel in the desert after the Exodus from slavery in Egypt. The Jewish people construct sukkot (“frail huts” or “booths”) that remind them of God’s provision and their dependence on God.
Jesus desired to attend this feast, but he had to do so “secretly” out of fear of those seeking His life. He demonstrates His own trust and dependence on God, for “his hour had not yet come.” Jesus gives us an example of trust in the Father, even when there are external threats present. He gave himself completely to God the Father and allowed Him to have complete control of every aspect of life. The struggle to give Himself over is captured most powerfully in the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus fell prostrate in prayer, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet, not as I will, but as you will” (Mt. 26:39).
Inevitably, giving ourselves over to God will also be a struggle because we grow very comfortable with controlling the direction of our lives. Nevertheless, be persistent in bringing your fears, doubts, or worries to God in prayer. For in all those circumstances beyond our control, we can always pray with faith, “Lord, I trust in You!”
Reflection: Do I believe that God will provide for my needs?
Reflection by Fr. Paul Sheller, OSB
Posted in Daily Reflections, Lenten Resources