Ask

Americans do not like to ask for anything. As a culture we are taught the value of independence. Most of us enjoy doing things for ourselves. This tendency to want to feel in control is a drawback when it relates to seeking a deeper relationship with God. In today’s gospel reading, Matthew 7:7-12, Jesus is conversing with his disciiples. He says,

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

Sometimes we are so busy with our daily responsibilities that we forget to ask. Our minds and bodies are so wrapped up in responsibility and worry that we neglect our spiritual need for connection with God. It is no wonder that stress overwhelms us; we are forgetting to take care of the spiritual dimension of our life.

During Lent, God invites us to spend some time with him, to ask for what we need. Jesus says, “If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him.”

This is a very comforting thought for me. God is waiting to build a relationship with me. He is always there. I am the one who has to come to him to ask, humble, as an obedient child, to my Father.

Dear Lord, help us to trust in you this Lent. You are our Father. Your good gifts are waiting for us if we but take the time to ask.

Amen