"Then from the cloud came a voice that said,
'This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.'”
—Matthew 17:5
Watch + read today's reflection
Why do so many Catholics “give things up” for Lent? Take a moment to reflect upon the goals that you might have set for yourself 12 days ago on Ash Wednesday. Maybe you decided to give something up to mirror the fast that Jesus went through during his time in the desert, or maybe you’re implementing a new habit into your own life in order to prepare yourself for Easter. Whatever journey you may find yourself on during this Lenten season, I invite you to remember the WHY. Why did I give up sweets or social media? Why am I praying every night before bed or volunteering once a week? When we remember the reason behind our fastings and feastings, we find the strength to continue.
In the Gospel of Matthew, God invites the disciples to listen to Jesus. Remember that in our sacrifices during this Lenten season we receive this same invitation. Pay attention to the ways in which Jesus is speaking to you, and while it might not be as obvious as it was to Peter, James and John, how might Jesus’ voice be filling the gaps in what you have “given up”?
Even though practices of sacrifice may be experienced as a void in a particular area of your life, this week’s Gospel encourages us to remember that that void is filled. Jesus is with us throughout the entire Lenten season. On what can appear to be a long and difficult journey, he is accompanying us.
Katy Dumais '25 is the Administrative Assistant to the Vice President of Mission and Ministry. During her undergraduate years at Boston College, Katy received her B.A. in Pyschology, served as a mentor for Ever to Excel, President of the Club Sports Executive Board, and was a member of the club volleyball team. She also participated in several of the division’s retreats and service programs including Kairos and Appalachia Volunteers.
Learn more about C21 Living Lent here.