February 26th, Friday, First Week of Lent

Ezekiel 18: 21-28, Psalm 130: 1-2, 3-4, 5-7a, 7bc-8, Matthew 5: 20-26

The common message that embraced me with all of the readings was “Let Go and Let God.” Let go of judgment, let go of grudges, let go of anger and let God in. Ironically, when I was called to do this, I was doing none of that.

It was a tough month for me, emotionally, spiritually, physically. I was overworked, overtired, overstressed and overcommitted. Work was challenging, and yet all around me friends and family were being let go, so I certainly couldn’t complain. I was busy at work, busy at home, busy with my volunteering efforts and not taking any time for myself or God for that matter. I was angry at everyone wondering why I seemed to have so many more burdens and why weren’t others stepping up to the plate.

Then I got the letter asking me to do this. At first I ignored it and placed it in my never ending cluttered “to do” pile. The letter was followed up with a phone call from a parish priest, on a day I had just come home from Mass and realized what was missing was my faith connection. It was an “aha” moment when I was told I was selected to do this and I felt a strong message from God to come closer to him. I hesitated to say “yes,” but my Catholic guilt got the best of me, and again, my inability to say “no” when I am overwhelmed.

Shortly afterwards, my readings came to me—one might say they were randomly selected, but the messages were shouting out to me from God—Relax, let go, come to me and let me help you. I realized I was angry for things I shouldn’t be and was judging others for not reacting or responding to life’s stressors or extending themselves the way I was. God was speaking to me directly through the scriptures that were sent to me and he drew me back to him and gave me permission to release myself in his loving care. I have always been one to look for the signs, and I am sure I have missed many of the subtle ones, but this one was a neon flashing sign—right into my path, guiding me in his ways.

Too often we hang on to grudges, stress and anger, to the detriment of ourselves and those around us. When we hold on to negativity, we are not open to the positives. When we Let Go and Let God, we are allowing God to guide us along his path. And that will make all the difference.

Lisa Honcharuk, married with two daughters.