Reflection for March 6, 2017

Monday of the First Week of Lent
LV 19: 1-2, 11-18
PS 19: 8, 9, 10,15
2 COR 6:2B
MT 25: 31-46

Lent is a time in which we are called to reflect on our past actions and reform our lives in an effort to be more like God to others in the future. Ignatian spirituality revolves around the fundamental principle of seeing God in the world that surrounds you. With that, where do you see God? Just as importantly, where don’t you see God? Why do you not see him there?

When examining the Gospel readings for today, Jesus says ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’

This is a very powerful message. Reflecting on our own lives, when do we interact with the least of our brothers and sisters? Work? School? What makes these individuals considered to be the least? Jesus’ message is not simply meant to be used as a tool or reflection. It is meant to be a call to action. Yes, you see the homeless gentleman on the corner on your way home from work. Have you ever stopped to ask him his name? Have you ever bought him a meal? Simply acknowledging the humanity in our brothers and sisters can make the world of difference in someone’s day.

This is not to say that every time we find ourselves face to face with the struggles of this world that we need to act then and there. However, in the long run, what are we doing to work towards the common good? How are we Christ to others? Take a moment today to think about ways in which God can disturb your daily routine by helping the least of our brothers and sisters.

Luke Ruszkowski is a senior Finance major and health care ethics minor from Villa Park, IL.