AECI Lenten 2025 Reflection: 'Steer Us From Hardness of Heart'
Introduction: Ash Wednesday
'Do you not see or understand?
Are your hearts hardened?
Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear?
And do you not remember?'
In the passage above, from the Gospel of Mark (Mark 8: 17-18) , Jesus adopts a phrase that on several occasions he repeats during the course of his ministry to both friend and to foe alike. He highlights the human impulse 'to harden' our hearts amidst everyday circumstances, and warns of the damaging impact that can result.
In this instance he admonishes the disciples as discussion breaks out amongst them once they set sail, in the aftermath of the feeding of the 'four thousand', the 'large crowd' who had gathered to hear Jesus near the Sea of Galilee. The discussion is centred around sufficient food in the boat for the journey ahead.
Is Jesus merely venting his frustration here at those of his time who are failing to listen to his broader message? Is he talking specifically about a stubbornness or intransigence that characterises our behaviours and attitudes? Or is he pointing to a deeper 'malaise' within human nature that restricts our spiritual growth and diverts our attention and direction?
Over the course of the next six weeks and into the 'Easter Triduum' we shall explore some of these issues and reflect on ways, both individually and collectively, that we are challenged in our lives to overcome this 'hardening of hearts'.
There shall be daily posts both on our AECI website blog and on our AECI facebook page that encourages personal reflection, silence and prayer. Each week there shall be a theme that focuses our Lenten practice:
Week One : Hard Heart vs. Tender Heart
Week Two: The Influence Of Experience
Week Three: The Influence Of Restlessness
Week Four: The Influence Of Pride
Week Five: Beyond Understanding
Week Six: Purity of Heart
Easter Triduum : The Treasure Of New Life
As for today, Ash Wednesday, we can begin by looking again at the image above of the heart shaped stone.
Consider:
When have you encountered 'the hard heartedness' of another human being? How did you respond?
Thank you for joining us!
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