Lenten Reflection Day 19 ~ Wednesday Third Week of Lent

Opening Prayers:

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be, and Confiteor (see Day 1).

Scripture Reading (Genesis 37:4, 18–24):

“And when his brethren saw that he was loved by their father more than all his sons, they hated him, and could not speak peaceably to him… And when they saw him afar off, they conspired together to kill him… And Reuben said: Do not take away his life… Let us not shed his blood… And they took him, and cast him into an old pit where there was no water.”

Reflection:

Today, we reflect on the betrayal of Joseph by his brothers, a foreshadowing of Christ’s Passion. Joseph was hated because he was the beloved son of his father and spoke truthfully about what he saw. Similarly, Jesus, the beloved Son of the Eternal Father, was rejected by His own and conspired against. The parallels are striking: both were plotted against by their own “brethren,” both suffered unjustly, and both would ultimately be instruments of God’s saving plan.

Lent is a time for us to examine whether envy, resentment, or pride has taken root in our hearts as it did in Joseph’s brothers. The sin of envy is often subtle—more a silent irritation than an open hostility, but it can lead to great evil if left unchecked. It blinds us to the goodness in others and poisons our peace. St. Basil described envy as “sorrow at another's good.” This is completely contrary to love, which rejoices in the good of others. When we find ourselves disliking someone’s success or spiritual progress, we must confront that impulse and ask for grace.

This passage also teaches us the destructive power of unchecked emotions. Joseph’s brothers let jealousy lead them into plotting murder. Sin escalates when we fail to bring our thoughts and passions under reason and prayer. As St. James wrote, “Where envying and contention is, there is instability and every evil work” (James 3:16). Lent is the season to purify our hearts of such disorder.

But we also see a hint of hope in Reuben, who tries to protect Joseph. Though imperfect, his intervention spares Joseph’s life. Sometimes we may feel like we are caught in a situation where others are committing wrongdoing. Like Reuben, we are called to speak up for what is right, even if imperfectly. Lent calls us to a stronger resolve to be courageous in the face of sin, especially in our homes, workplaces, and communities.

The pit into which Joseph is thrown is also a powerful image for spiritual desolation. Perhaps you feel abandoned, misunderstood, or rejected by others, even by those close to you. Joseph’s example reminds us that these sufferings can unite us more deeply with Christ, who was abandoned, betrayed, and left to die. The pit may be dark, but it is not the end. God uses even betrayals and injustices to bring about a greater good. Joseph would later become the savior of his people during famine; Christ, by His Cross, becomes the Savior of all.

Consider how your own sufferings, whether from others or within your heart, can be joined to the suffering of Jesus. Fridays are especially suited for this meditation. Try to offer your crosses today with love, uniting them to His. If possible, pray the Stations of the Cross, or at least spend some time before a crucifix.

Lastly, let us not forget to examine whether we have wronged others. Have we been unjust, harsh, or unkind to someone out of envy or pride? Lent is the time to repair such wrongs and to reconcile. Perhaps you can reach out to someone you've hurt or silently judged and offer an act of kindness, a sincere apology, or even just a prayer for them.

Closing Prayers:

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

V: Let us bless the Lord.

R: Thanks be to God.

V: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

R: Amen.