March 2025
Reflections of God's Goodness
Lent is an invitation to change our hearts. It’s a journey toward the joy of Easter! Traditionally, we focus on prayer, fasting and sharing. This is a time to seek God with more intention.
“Be still before the LORD; wait for him.”
A regular prayer time with God includes praise and adoration, gratitude and repentance. If you have a prayer practice now, be sure some of your time is in silence before God. Change our hearts, Lord.
Fasting has been a spiritual discipline since Old Testament times. Fasting helps us detach from the things of the world. Most people choose to fast from food, or sweets or alcohol. We can also fast from social media, TV, or internet. Change our habits, Lord.
“Is this not, rather, the fast that I choose: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; Setting free the oppressed, breaking off every yoke? Is it not sharing your bread with the hungry, bringing the afflicted and the homeless into your house; Clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own flesh?”
Sharing frees up time and money to benefit others in need. Look at your excesses, clothing, furniture, toys, etc. We all have things we no longer wear or use. Give these things away. Use organizations like St. Vincent de Paul or ask around to find people who need them. Change our minds and actions, Lord.
"Yet even now … return to me with your whole heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the LORD, your God."
Together, let us journey toward the marvelous light of our resurrected Lord. May each of us experience Easter joy beyond our wildest imaginations. Lord, this time change our hearts!
Happy Lent!
Sister Mary Ann Barnhorn, SNDdeN
“Call to me, and I will answer you; I will tell you great things beyond the reach of your knowledge.”
Read the previous reflections:
A reflection on finding God's love in our hearts through Pope Francis's "Dilexit Nos" encyclical, exploring how daily connection with Jesus empowers us to love others in a world seeking deeper meaning. Features Scripture passages and guidance for spiritual growth.
Celebrate the Feast of the Incarnation and the New Year with reflections on love, compassion, and unity from Sister Mary Ann Barnhorn, SNDdeN. Explore how Christ’s Sacred Heart inspires us to transform our hearts and communities through kindness, forgiveness, and love. Dive into scripture and Pope Francis’ encyclical to begin the year with grace and purpose.
Prepare your heart for Advent with this reflection from Sister Mary Ann Barnhorn, SNDdeN. Explore how intentional prayer, reflection on time, and a simple mantra—“Come, Lord Jesus, come”—can deepen your connection to the true meaning of the season. Discover insights, scripture, and prayers to inspire your Advent journey.
Reflect on how we are deeply connected to God and each other, both on earth and in heaven. Through family, friends, and the communion of saints, our memories become sacred links to loved ones now in God’s presence. This November, join us in a prayer of gratitude as we remember and give thanks for the love, inspiration, and connection that unite us as one body in Christ, across life and eternity