Sarah Whitley 1 Corinthians 10:24
Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others.
The period of Lent is a time for preparation, much like the time of Advent is a time of preparation. Instead of preparing for the birth of the Christ child, we are preparing our hearts to receive the Good News given to us through the suffering and death of Christ. Some take this opportunity to prepare by giving up certain things that are important to them in order to remind themselves of the sacrifice of Christ. Others embark on a renewed study of the Bible and spiritual writings. A few may undertake an intensive 40-day retreat to prepare themselves to more fully experience Holy Week and all that it brings.
Our scripture for today suggests that we should seek the good of others. To seek the good of others, we cannot seek our own good. We must not put ourselves first. We must not strive for ourselves but open our hearts to those God puts in our path. We can do nothing good for others unless we are prepared to acknowledge and accept the many gifts God has already given us. Only by the help of the Holy Spirit can we even begin to adopt a proper attitude of gratitude to the generous God who watches over us all.
Perhaps we might try and open ourselves to God's leading during this season of Lent. Instead of giving up diet cokes or chocolate or exercise, we might try giving up seeking our own good. We could spend our Lenten season in a state of readiness for God to reveal the needs of others so that we can seek their good and act upon God's leading.
Dear Lord, grant us eyes that see and ears that hear so that we might respond to your calling during this season of Lent and always. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
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