March 5, Thursday Lenten Weekday

Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.--Psalm 138:3

Mass readings: Esther C:12,14-16,23-25 / Matthew 7:7-12

No One But You, Lord

There was a time in my life when I seemed to live in a tunnel with no vestige of light at the end. Everything was gray. I don't like gray. However painful, black and white would have been preferable. I felt abandoned and became more and more stressed. When I eventually emerged, I realized that, in all that murk, Jesus had been there beside me, although I had not recognized Him.

I can empathize with Queen Esther in today's first reading. In the mortal danger which confronted her, she was alone -- except for the presence of her God. Her instinct was immediately to pray, fulfilling the New Testament injunction, ''Ask and it will be given to you.'' And given to her it was, more than she had requested. The same for you and me.

Prayer: Lord, give me the faith which believes You hear and answer my prayer.