Lent is new beginning

40 Shades of Lent by Fr. Nicanor F. Lalog II
Monday, Fourth Week in Lent, 31 March 2025
Isaiah 65:17-21     + + +     John 4:43-54

Thus says the Lord: Lo, I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; the things of the past shall not be remembered or come to mind. Instead, there shall always be rejoicing and happiness in what I create; For I create Jerusalem to be a joy and its people to be a delight (Isaiah 65:17-18).

Oh what a great joy
to listen to you, God 
our loving Father
this Monday promising us
of you creating new heavens
and new earth!

There is that great excitement always
in everything that is new -
a new home
a new job
a new relationship
a new destination
a new phone or car;
but Father, that is how we
look at everything new -
always outside of us;
this Lent,
turn us to look inside
our hearts,
into our very selves
as the new beginning;
let us be excited and joyful for
a new self
a new heart
a new attitude!
like that official from Capernaum
who begged Jesus to heal his son,
let us realize new heavens
and new earth begin
with a new me.
Amen.