Friday of the Fifth Week of Lent
“The Lord is with me, like a mighty champion: my persecutors will stumble, they will not triumph.” Jer 20:12
I followed the other passengers off the plane as they slowly unloaded into a new and strange place. My journey had become a reality, my fears were creeping in, and my sense of loneliness became overwhelming. Feeling scared and vulnerable I was alone, solo in a foreign country. But, it was a superficial loneliness. Deep down I knew that I was where I needed to be, that God was taking care of me. I had him as my companion.
As I made my way through the hallways of the dark Guatemala City airport to the baggage claim, I hoped my broken Spanish would get me to my hotel for the night. I rehearsed over and over my Spanish must know phrases, and I prayed in abandonment, “I am not here for myself Lord, You brought me here, guide me.”
Time after time, I have found myself feeling alone, abandoned, overwhelmed and lost in the hectic life that we live in. Whether it be a loneliness that longs for earthly friendship, or a longing for consolation from God, I am thankful for these moments. In these moments, we are made aware of our dependence on God and we are offered the opportunity to once again abandon ourselves to His plan for us. Whether we acknowledge it or not, the Lord is our champion, and He is fighting to protect us.
We need not fear, the Lord offers us victory in this battle of life. He is our protector, to whom our cause can be entrusted. Jesus hears us in our distress, rescues us and through the cross and resurrection offers us consolation and eternal life.
As this Lenten season comes to a close, let us reflect upon our utter dependence on God. Let us thank Him for being our Savior.
Emily Heimel
Catholic Studies Student