Supplemental Reflections for Lent 2009
(40 Days of Lamentations)
Day 29

A God Who Protects
 
“The Lord is my shepherd”
(Psalm 23:1a)

March 30
Daniel 13:1-62
Psalm 23:1-6
John 8:1-11

In today’s readings we have the stories of two very different women, but both blessed by one and the very same God. One is the sinful woman. The other is the virtuous Susanna. The first was caught in an adulterous sexual relationship (Jn 8:3), and rightly accused by the scribes and Pharisees (elders). Susanna was alleged to have been caught in an illicit sexual relationship, but falsely accused by the two judges (elders). In both cases the two women were brought for judgment, the first before the assembly of the people, the second before Jesus. Both were being led to execution (Jn 8:5; Dn 13:45a). The first was guilty while the second was innocent. Both escaped condemnation.

In both cases God acted. For the first God used Daniel. For the second God used Jesus. In the end, the adulterous woman would sin no more (Jn 8:11) and become virtuous just like Susanna.
 
It is interesting that in both cases the targets were innocent. The target of the scribes and Pharisees was not really the adulterous woman, but Jesus (Jn 8:6).

It can happen to us too. Because of the sin of others, we may be afflicted. People, like the scribes and Pharisees, might have a hidden agenda, and use circumstances to afflict us. Others, like the two judges, might have their own guilt to hide, and so fabricate charges against us in order to cover up their own wrongdoing. These can be powerful people, even spiritual leaders, and we can feel really powerless. Susanna groaned, “I am completely trapped, …. I cannot escape your power.” (Dn 13:22). The adulterous woman remained quiet, knowing she was completely powerless.

However, these seemingly hopeless situations can be great blessings, if they move us to turn to God. In our utter helplessness, we turn to the One who is in control of all situations. Susanna cried aloud to God (Dn 13:42), and “the Lord heard her prayer.” (Dn 13:44).
 
We can put our well-being totally in God’s hands, because “the Lord is (a) shepherd” (Ps 23:1a), who cares for His flock. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who will even give his life for his sheep. If that is the case, then “there is nothing that I lack” (Ps 23:1b)! If God Himself is caring for me, interested only in my well-being, then I have everything! I need never fear, whatever the distressing circumstances of life.

What does it mean that the Lord is my shepherd?

• He guides me. “You guide me along the right path” (Ps 23:3b).

• He keeps me safe. “To safe waters you lead me” (Ps 23:2b).

• He strengthens me. “You restore my strength” (Ps 23:3a).

• He gives me courage. “Your rod and staff give me courage” (Ps 23:4b).

• He provides for what I need in order to live well. “In green pastures you let me graze” (Ps 23:2a). He even provides abundance! “My cup overflows” (Ps 23:5b).

• I need never be afraid, even in the direst of circumstances. “Even when I walk through a dark valley, I fear no harm for you are at my side” (Ps 23:4a).

• He shows the world, including my enemies, that I am His friend and guest. “You set a table before me as my enemies watch” (Ps 23:5a).

 What a blessed life! Even as enemies pursue us to cause our downfall, we can truly exclaim, “Only goodness and love will pursue me all the days of my life” (Ps 23:6a). God intervenes in our lives, and that is how we endure the crosses and experience the blessings in life, as we live in and with Him. We can confidently aver, “I will dwell in the house of the Lord for years to come.” (Ps 23:6b).

No, not just for years, but for all eternity.

*   *   *

The kind of God we have:  The Good Shepherd.
 
Our covenant response:  Bless God who saves those that hope in Him (Dn 13:60).
 
Lamentations reflection/action:  What great trials and crosses are you facing? Are you able to fully trust in Jesus?
 
Lamentations prayer:  “O eternal God, you know what is hidden and are aware of all things before they come to be” (Dn 13:42). Though there are dangers all around me, I fear not, for my life is entirely in your hands. Please always extend to me your protection, guidance, strength and courage. I rejoice in your salvation. Lord, I look up to you and trust in you wholeheartedly (Dn 13:35b). Amen.
 

(You are encouraged to use the book “Forty Days of Lamentations” during this period of Lent 2009. Most of the scripture readings are the same. In case they are not, a supplemental reflection is provided. Let us continue to learn the lessons of Lamentations.)