March 26, Friday Lenten Weekday

In my distress I called upon the Lord, and he heard my voice. --Psalm 18:(see 7)

Mass readings: Jeremiah 20:10-13 / John 10:31-42

Jesus, Our Spiritual Director

Kathryn, my spiritual director, is one of the most vital friends God has placed in my life. A lifelong contemplative and Quaker, Kathryn was trained in spiritual direction by the Jesuits. One of Kathryn's gifts is her ability to ask penetrating questions. Her gentle probing requires that I consider with honesty what's in my heart. That exercise is sometimes uncomfortable, if not downright threatening!

The scene in our Gospel reading today reveals intense conflict between Jesus and the Jews (the temple spiritual leaders). They've picked up rocks to stone Him, but how does Jesus react? The quintessential Spiritual Director asks them questions. And, because they fear looking into their own hearts for the answers, everything about Jesus becomes a threat. Pondering the truth in our own hearts can be the greatest threat of all.

Prayer: Jesus, with Your help, we ask for courage to look into our hearts.