Deuteronomy 26:4-10
“behold, I have brought the firstfruits of the land which you, O Lord, have given me.” (Deuteronomy 26:10)
"What are you giving up for Lent?” This is a familiar question as we begin this season of penitence and renewal. Lent is a time of devoting efforts to fasting, prayer, and almsgiving—practices which help us recognize and remove barriers (such as idols and vices) to deepening our relationships with God, reorienting our attention and time towards Him and others. But, perhaps we needn’t view this as a season of “giving up,” but rather one of recognizing the abundance we have and are continuously being given, and responding to it by returning ourselves more fully to God in love.
In today’s first reading, the Israelites recall God’s goodness to them, and bring Him the “firstfruits” of what He has provided. This is not only symbolic of their gratitude, but also of their trust that He will continue to provide. In the economy of God’s love, when we give what we receive, we can be sure of receiving more.
When I engage in a relationship with insufficient gratitude, I don’t see it in truth, and don’t give my “firstfruits” to it. The same is true of my relationship with God. Heading into Lent, I’ve felt an invitation to rediscover and reground myself in the Lord’s abundant love so that I can more fully respond in love.
After prayerful discernment, my Lent includes choosing new spaces to retreat with the Lord. Withdrawing from sources of noise and distraction, so I can be more attentive and attuned to his voice and movements throughout the day. Uprooting the plants, and re-tilling the soil where I’ve allowed fruits that are not his to grow. Cultivating gratitude for the ways He has loved and supported me. Asking Him to reveal Himself in new ways, and discovering Him through Scripture and the witness of others. And regularly seeking ways to give more to others out of the abundance I have received.
Growing in intimacy, gratitude, and generosity helps cultivate a sense of God’s abundant love, and of being unceasingly cared for and held. We might then ask, “From what abundance am I being invited to live out of?”
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