Thursday of the First Week of Lent, March 13, 2025

Seeking God’s Will in all aspects of our lives
Esth 12, 14-16, 23-25; Psalm 137; Mt 7:7-12
The reflection on today’s readings brings forth several important lessons for Christians to ponder upon. These passages from the Bible provide guidance on how to approach prayer and the importance of seeking God’s guidance in all aspects of our lives.
In the book of Esther, we see the story of a young Jewish girl who becomes queen of Persia and ultimately saves her people from destruction. In these verses, Esther prays to God for strength and guidance before approaching the king to plead for her people. This serves as a powerful example of the importance of seeking God’s help in times of need and the power of prayer in overcoming difficult situations.
Similarly, in today’s gospel, Jesus teaches his followers the importance of persistence in prayer. He encourages them to ask, seek, and knock, knowing that God will answer their prayers in His time and according to His will. This passage emphasizes the need for faith and trust in God’s plan, even when we do not understand His ways.
Both of these passages highlight the importance of humility in prayer. Esther approached the king with humility and trust in God’s plan, knowing that her actions were guided by His hand. Similarly, Jesus instructs his followers to treat others with kindness and respect, knowing that God’s love and mercy should be reflected in their interactions with others.
Furthermore, both passages emphasize the importance of seeking God’s will in all aspects of our lives. Esther sought God’s guidance before approaching the king, knowing that her actions needed to align with His plan in order to succeed. In the same way, Jesus teaches his followers to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, trusting that all other needs will be provided for by Him.
Overall, the reflection on today’s readings serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prayer, humility, and seeking God’s will in our lives. These passages provide guidance on how to approach God in times of need, trusting that He will answer our prayers in His perfect timing. By following the examples set forth in these scriptures, Christians can deepen their relationship with God and trust in His plan for their lives.