Are you ready for a Spiritual Scan?
On this first Sunday of Lent, let us reflect on the significance of X-rays: they
uncover hidden aspects that would otherwise remain unnoticed and play a
crucial role in diagnosis, treatment and prescription for many physical conditions.
Similarly, our readings for today serve as a spiritual scan, revealing hidden
truths that prompt us toward necessary action. The flood in the first reading may
appear to be punishment from God; however, it also functions as a spiritual scan,
bringing to light the sinfulness of humanity. Even before being swept away by the
floodwaters, humanity was already drowning spiritually in violence and
unkindness. This event serves as a revelation of our underlying spiritual disorder.
The flood does not merely expose the deadly consequences of sin; it also
offers a way out. This is evident in the Covenant God establishes, not only with
Noah but with every living creature for all generations. God’s desire is not to
destroy the wicked, but rather for them to turn back and embrace life. This
echoes the Good News that Jesus proclaims in the Gospel.
In the Gospel reading, Jesus allows himself to be driven by the Spirit into the
wilderness. Just as the flood functions as a scan, the wilderness also serves as
revelation for Jesus. It unveils the hidden spiritual encounters of the Lord. While
Jesus displays mastery over diseases and demons in His public ministry, the
wilderness highlights His constant struggle against Satan. It is a struggle that
Jesus consistently triumphs over by drawing strength from the One who sends
Angels to protect and guide Him.
Revealing hidden things to prompt necessary action is the essence of the
season of Lent. It extends beyond merely giving up desserts, media, or
Facebook. It serves as a spiritual scan, uncovering hidden aspects of our lives
and prompting us toward transformation and renewal. It calls us to examine our
hearts, thoughts, and actions and to address areas where we have fallen short.
We are called to engage in self-reflection, repentance, and transformation.
Lent challenges us to acknowledge our sins, seek forgiveness, and extend
forgiveness to others. It calls us to practice acts of charity, kindness, and
compassion, particularly towards those in need. It calls us to be involved in
helping the church and our community. Lent urges us to build bridges of
understanding and unity in a society often marked by division and animosity.Fr. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor
Dear brothers and sisters, let us undergo a spiritual scan during this Lenten
Season by reading God’s word and allowing His words to uncover the hidden
areas of our lives that require attention and action. By doing so and submitting to
Lent’s consoling discipline we will experience transformation and renewal.