Lenten Reflection Day 25 ~ Wednesday Fourth Week of Lent

Opening Prayers:

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

Scripture Reading (Hosea 14:2–4,6):

“Return, O Israel, to the Lord thy God… Take with you words, and return to the Lord, and say to Him: Take away all iniquity, and receive the good… I will heal their breaches, I will love them freely: for My wrath is turned away from them. I will be as the dew: Israel shall spring forth as the lily, and his root shall shoot as that of Libanus.”

Reflection:

The Lenten call to return to God reaches a tender crescendo in today’s reading from the prophet Hosea. God speaks not as a judge, but as a loving spouse—pleading with Israel (and with each of us): “Return… I will heal… I will love freely.”

This passage reveals the heart of true repentance: not just avoiding punishment, but returning to a relationship. Like the prodigal son, we return not to a courtroom, but to a Father who runs to embrace us. And God even gives us the words to say: “Take with you words… and say: take away all iniquity.” That is, come to confession sincerely and humbly, and He will do the rest.

The promise is beautiful: “I will be as the dew.” Dew comes silently and gently in the morning; it nourishes the dry ground. This is how grace works in a penitent soul—quietly reviving what seemed withered. The soul that confesses its sins and returns with trust will “spring forth as the lily.” Even if Lent has so far been dry or difficult, God is ready to send this dew upon you.

The passage concludes with a strong image: “his root shall shoot as that of Libanus (Lebanon).” The cedars of Lebanon were famed for their depth and endurance. So too, the soul that returns to the Lord will grow in strength and stability. Lent is not just about pruning sin; it is about planting virtue with deep roots.

Saintly Insight:

St. Alphonsus Liguori wrote, “If you fear to return to God, remember this: the devil makes you ashamed to confess, but God waits to embrace you. The greater your sins, the greater your right to His mercy—provided you repent sincerely.”

He also urged frequent Confession during Lent, reminding penitents: “Each confession not only washes the soul, but strengthens it against future falls.”

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.