CARLOW UNIVERSITY Lent 2020 Daily Reflections for Your Lenten Journey - NOW IS THE ACCEPTABLE TIME

CARLOW UNIVERSITY
Lent 2020 Daily Reflections for Your Lenten Journey

                               NOW IS THE ACCEPTABLE TIME

                                       1   Lent Daily Reflections

AN INVITATION FROM THE PRESIDENT
     As we begin the 2020 season of Lent, we are in the midst of
     Carlow University’s 90th anniversary year, and are reflecting on our
     continuing journey shared with our founders, the Sisters of Mercy.
     Their legacy resides in our Catholic mission and values and were
     derived from the life of Jesus. We carry these forward today and
     they distinguish us as a University and as a community. The season
     of Lent provides us with a wonderful opportunity to reflect on this
     legacy and Jesus’ teachings, and deepen our relationship with Him.

     Taking the time to reflect in a world that is ever-increasing in its 24-7
     pace with multi-tasking, social media bombardment, increasing
     numbers of communication channels, and multiple competing
     responsibilities, we are asked to stop and change this pace. During
     this holy Lenten season, we are asked to return to the Lord with
     our whole heart and to deepen our relationship with Jesus. We
     are asked to commit to a period of change during these 40 days
     through changing our schedule and what we spend our time on with
     increased prayer and living our faith in a visible way.

     This is a season that calls us to action. To embrace the world as it
     really is and do something about it – to reach out to those in need,
     the forgotten, the ill, the lonely, the dying. Having our anchor value
     of Mercy is core to how we respond to and make the world a better
     place. We are clearly called to do this as a University founded by the
     Sisters of Mercy.

     I hope your journey over these 40 days of Lent will enhance your
     faith as we prepare for the joyous celebration of the Resurrection.
     Pope Francis once said that “following Jesus is not a polite etiquette
     to be observed, but a journey to be undertaken.”

     May this Lenten book, with reflections from our Carlow colleagues,
     support you on your journey.

     Suzanne K. Mellon
2    President,
    Lent           Carlow University
         Daily Reflections

Joel 2:12-18; Psalm 51:3-6ab, 12-14, 17; 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2; Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18
February 26, 2020
ASH WEDNESDAY

In the days when people depended on fireplaces to warm their homes, there was a
practice called “banking the fire”. It meant drawing ashes over the embers at night
so that they continued to smolder until blown back into flame in the morning. I often
think of this image as Lent approaches - that season when we give up the singing of
“Alleluia”, the anthem we use to celebrate our beliefs. During these weeks we are
asked to cover over that shout of joy with the ashes of Lent, to “dial it back” a bit
and take a quieter approach to expressing the joy that vibrates at the center of our
faith. It’s not gone. It still hums at the center. When we engage in prayerful silence we
can still hear it and feel it – like a treasure we are protecting until it is ready to break
out again on Easter. During this season of Lent, let’s take some quiet time to pay
attention to the quiet thrumming of wonder and joy that we are harboring until it is
ready to reappear.

Sheila Carney, RSM, ’67
Center for Mercy Heritage and Service

                                                                          3    Lent Daily Reflections

Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Psalm 1:1-4, 6; Luke 9:22-25
       February 27, 2020
       THURSDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY

       The scripture that most spoke to me was Psalm 1:1- 4 and 6. This scripture is about
       trusting in God in order to get your blessings fulfilled. This stuck with me because
       society tells us that we have to work on our own in order to get what we desire.
       However, the Bible tells us different, all of these scriptures had the central idea that
       we must follow what God says in order to succeed and those who don’t will not
       prevail. This left me with the question of whether what I am doing with my life is what
       God intended for me or not? Is everything negative that happens to me because I am
       not supposed to be doing it or is it part of a lesson?

       Noble Dixon ’22
       Respiratory Care
       Black Student Union, President
       Fashions for Kids’ Sake, Mentor Coordinator

4   Lent Daily Reflections

Isaiah 58:1-9a; Psalm 51:3-5, 6ab, 18-19; Matthew 9:14-15
February 28, 2020
FRIDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY

A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

Today’s Responsorial Psalm resonated with me. During this Lenten season – we
should find time to quiet ourselves, repent for our sins and humbly seek God’s mercy.
Be prayerful and open your heart to God. When we are most quiet and reflective, we
can hear God more easily. He never abandons us – but rather embraces us when we
most need Him and are most vulnerable.

My prayer for this Lenten season is that we all find the inner peace of God in our
hearts and allow that to be shared with others who need our love and support.

Grace Barry
Mother of Emma Wilson, ’21 – SGA President

                                                                      5   Lent Daily Reflections

Isaiah 58:9b-14; Psalm 86:1-6; Luke 5:27-32
       February 29, 2020
       SATURDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY

       As I read the passage from Isaiah, I found myself relating it not only to everyday life,
       but also to Carlow’s values. Overall, the message of the passage is to remove the
       negatives in your life and flourish in the positives. No matter what you do, God will
       always try to guide you into the right direction. At the beginning of the passage it
       discusses how it is necessary to remove the cruelty, lies, and hateful words from your
       life and begin volunteering and helping those in need. This is reflective of a few of
       Carlow’s values: feed the hungry, and serve the poor. As I reflected on the passage
       I could feel the pull to put my faith in God and let Him bring out the light in me
       through serving. Lastly, this passage emphasizes how important God’s Holy Day is.

       Julia Draper ’22
       Psychology, Concentration in Crisis and Trauma
       Women’s Softball, Resident Assistant, Student Government Treasurer

6   Lent Daily Reflections

Genesis 2:7-9, 3:1-7; Psalm 51:3-6, 12-13, 17; Romans 5:12-19; Matthew 4: 1-11
March 1, 2020
FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT

Jesus is tempted in today’s Gospel. “If you are the Son of God,” the devil says,
“Command these stones to become bread… throw yourself down… [rule] all the
kingdoms of the world.” The devil challenges: If you are the Son of God, prove it!
Prove it to me, to yourself, and to humankind with a show of divine power!

During his ministry, Jesus certainly did display God’s power. He didn’t change stones
into bread - but he did change bread into his own flesh as food for others. Jesus
didn’t cheat death by jumping into the arms of angels - but he did jump into the arms
of the cross to lovingly embrace the world. Jesus didn’t rule the earth in power - but
he did become the Prince of Peace.

Jesus was tempted to use power for his own benefit. Instead, he used it for those
who had none. May we follow Christ’s example.

Jeff Schaffer, MA, Loyola University of New Orleans
Georgian Court University, Director of Campus Ministry

                                                                     7    Lent Daily Reflections

Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18; Psalm 19:8-10, 15; Matthew 25:31-46
       March 2, 2020
       FIRST MONDAY OF LENT

        ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did
       for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’(Mt 25:40)

       Often, we take these words for granted. Of course, we should serve other people.
       However, this can be difficult. Often, it is the most challenging when we, ourselves,
       are going through a struggle. How can we make the effort to enter someone else’s
       chaos, as James Keenan, S.J. suggests, when we need space to overcome our
       own hardships?

       This is when both of us need it the most. One of my favorite quotes is from Joyce
       Meyer: “When you feel down, go be a blessing to someone else.” It is amazing how
       stepping out of our comfort zones and pain to embrace each other, in even a small
       way, can help both of us heal.

       Nicole Ravas ’20
       MFA Creative Writing
       Academic Affairs

8   Lent Daily Reflections

Isaiah 55:10-11; Psalm 34:4-7, 16-19; Matthew 6:7-15
March 3, 2020
FIRST TUESDAY OF LENT

I think the Gospel Matthew 6:7-15 describes how Jesus is telling us how to pray. He
tells us to pray respectfully to God. Jesus tells us to pray the Our Father. In the prayer,
He teaches us to not hold grudges against people. If you forgive someone, God will
forgive you, too. As we pray “and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil”
we ask God to help us to be kind and thoughtful about other people, even if they are
disrespectful to you. This teaches us that you should always be nice and considerate
to everyone, no matter the circumstance and to trust in God, especially during the
Lenten Season.

Evie Passero ’21
Campus Laboratory School of Carlow University

                                                                        9    Lent Daily Reflections

Jonah 3:1-10; Psalm 51:3-4, 12-13, 18-1; Luke 11:29-32
       March 4, 2020
       FIRST WEDNESDAY OF LENT

       The supplicant in today’s Psalm cries out to God for mercy and compassion. They ask
       to be cleansed of sin, to have a clean heart, and to be of steadfast spirit. They plead
       to remain in God’s presence, and to keep the Holy Spirit within them. The supplicant
       offers, as a sacrifice, to be penitent and humble. In my Multicultural Counseling class,
       we often talk about the need to practice cultural humility. This Psalm helps me to
       remember to practice spiritual humility. If I remain humble and penitent before God,
       His grace will lift me up from human weaknesses and sorrows.

       Bernie Lukacs ’20
       Psychology, Art Minor
       Psi Chi, Vice-President, Alpha Phi Omega, Student Government Association,
       Social Justice Institute Club, LGBTGIA+ Club, The Critical Point, Business
       Leaders of Carlow

10 Lent Daily Reflections

Esther C:12,14-16, 23-25; Psalm 138:1-3, 7c-8; Matthew 7:7-12
March 5, 2020
FIRST THURSDAY OF LENT

This day’s readings are so rich. But in all of them we can take away one thing, God’s
infinite love for us and our response to that love.

It is not only when everything goes well that we can feel the Love of God, but even
more so when in difficulty and sorrow, He tells us He is there. Behind the struggle we
will find God.

“O LORD, my God”, these words which we find in Esther bring a similar prayer to our
heart especially during this time of Lent, Jesus as he hung on the cross cries out to
his father:

 “My God, My God why have you abandoned me” (Mt47:26). Could it not be that
the words in today’s reading are a foreshadowing of those words of Jesus where
every man and woman can find an answer to his why, can find the faith beyond all
limits and find the answer to their own “why” said in a million ways?

Jade Giacobbe ’67

                                                                      11 Lent Daily Reflections

Ezra 18:21-28; Psalm 130:1-8; Matthew 5:20-26
       March 6, 2020
       FIRST FRIDAY OF LENT

       Leave your gift there at the altar,
       go first and be reconciled with your (neighbor),
       and then come and offer your gift. (Mt 5:24)

       The Gospel reminds us that how we treat one another creates the attitude and
       disposition with which we meet God. Let us take time today to be truly present to
       see the face of Christ in all whom we encounter. Let us meet one another with ears
       of patience, eyes of mercy, words of affirmation and hands of compassion, so that we
       will realize that the gift we bring to the altar is the ways we find Christ in the other.

       Sr. Michele Schroeck, RSM
       Mercy Institute New Membership Team- Vocation Minister

12 Lent Daily Reflections

Deuteronomy 26:16-19; Psalm 119:1-2, 4-5, 7-8; Matthew 5:43-48
March 7, 2020
FIRST SATURDAY OF LENT

Forgiveness is hard. Especially when we are in the depths of deep suffering and
utterly at a loss as to what to do. Maybe we have been deeply hurt; maybe, we have
done the hurting. Whatever side of forgiveness we’re on, it is painful. When someone
we love cries out to us for forgiveness, because we love them, we respond to them
from that place of love, even though it is difficult. The same is true for us when we’re
the one who needs to be forgiven. Whether we forgive or are forgiven, the other side
of forgiveness is freedom.

Psalm 130 shares the good news of forgiveness: in times of great pain when
forgiveness is needed, we may rest assured that God is there, teaching us lessons of
forgiveness that fully redeem us and free us from its suffering.

Patricia Beaumont, ’00
MFA, ’20
University Advancement

                                                                      13 Lent Daily Reflections

Genesis 12:1-4a; Psalm 33:4-5, 18-20, 22; 2Timothy 1:8b-10; Matthew 17:1-9
       March 8, 2020
       SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT

       In all of the readings we hear of God’s blessings, His mercy and His call for us to
       follow Him. The blessings He promises, when you pause and think about them,
       are astounding – “I’ll make you a great nation, your name will be great, I’ll bless
       those who bless you”, and deliverance from death itself! In return, all that God is
       asking is that we trust Him and follow Him. This seems so simple. In return, God
       promises to be with us always. He promises that we can trust Him. In the story of
       the Transfiguration we are presented with the divinity of Jesus in all of His glory, an
       astonishing experience for Peter, James and John. It reminds me what a remarkable
       thing it was that Jesus humbled himself to be just like us, so that we would have the
       very powerful example of His life – His trust in His Father even in death. He trusted,
       He followed, and in the end, was redeemed.

       Shawn Nelson
       Office of the President

14 Lent Daily Reflections

Daniel 9:4b-10; Psalm 79:8-9, 11, 13; Luke 6:36-38
March 9, 2020
SECOND MONDAY OF LENT

I chose to reflect on the first reading.

I was raised in a strict Catholic household. My father believed in right and wrong,
he did not believe in long discussions about feelings. My father is a product of his
father and so on. All being raised in the Catholic Church, all believing that the wrongs
that were committed in everyday life were quickly forgiven with a monthly diet of
confession. My parents loved me the best way they knew how and, because of that
experience, I believe in a higher power greater than myself. Having been blessed with
working at Carlow for the last 28 years I have experienced the good and the bad but
the one constant is a deep belief in God a willingness to persevere and to put your
best foot forward.

Dan J. Hall
Facilities, Groundskeeping

                                                                      15 Lent Daily Reflections

Isaiah 1:10, 16-20; Psalm 50:8-9, 16bc-17, 21, 23; Matthew 23:1-12
       March 10, 2020
       SECOND TUESDAY OF LENT

       All of us are in danger of hypocrisy because we are all sinners. It is easy to slip and
       fall into human habits of sin, even when we are regular church-goers. It is even more
       destructive when church leaders act in ways that are not consistent with the message
       and the Lord they preach. We have all seen most church leaders tell us that we
       should think, believe, and do this or that. We have learned to mistrust church because
       the people who are telling us what to think, believe, and do; are not doing the things
       they want us to do. Their own words and actions don’t match up with what they want
       and expect from us. But when we are true followers of Jesus Christ, we do not say
       one thing and do another. We must be on guard against this behavior in our
       own lives.

       Natalie Mukankusi ’21
       Biology/Perfusion

16 Lent Daily Reflections

Jeremiah 18:18-20; Psalm 31:5-6, 14-16; Matthew 20:17-28
March 11, 2020
SECOND WEDNESDAY OF LENT

This is a time for each of us to reflect on our lives as Christians. Are we living in the
dark or are we living in the light of Christ? Do we truly love our neighbors and share
the Good News as Christ preached and do we help others who need help?
Do we reach out to others in their time of need? Remember the homeless, the
abused, and the needy as we prepare for the second and triumphal coming of
Jesus Christ.

Let us turn towards those less fortunate and reach out to them. Practice what we
preach and be kind and compassionate toward others and may the Love, Peace, and
Light of Jesus Christ our Savior be with you always. “The Son of Man did not come to
be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mt. 20:28).

Kenneth J. Ference
Police Department

                                                                         17 Lent Daily Reflections

Jeremiah 17:5-10; Psalm 1:1-4 6; Luke 16:19-31
       March 12, 2020
       SECOND THURSDAY OF LENT

       The three words that touched my heart were forgiveness, justice and humble.
       As faithful people we walk amidst temptation and sin, yet we know what is right.
       Sometimes, when we stray or find ourselves in the depths of sin, God asks us to
       change our ways and do better. He does not want us to wallow in guilt or dwell on our
       faults. Once we recognize our wrongdoings and turn ourselves around, he forgives
       us. He also expects us to forgive ourselves because he has a plan for us and needs us
       to be fully present. His plan is to fill our world with servant leaders who see the path
       to justice, and work to achieve it so that all of humanity feels the love of God flowing
       over us like a warm summer breeze. When we are passionate about justice we honor
       each individual, eliminate racism, respect the earth and ensure that children have
       nutritious food and quality education. With passion comes a humble spirit that needs
       no rewards and accolades, but rather the silent witness of the impact of justice.

       Allow our God to forgive, move toward the work of justice and be humble in
       our successes.

       Barbara Johnson, Senior Director of Race and Gender Equity
       YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh

18 Lent Daily Reflections

Genesis 37:3-4 12-13a 17b-28a; Psalm 105:16-21; Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46
March 13, 2020
SECOND FRIDAY OF LENT

In the Gospel reading, Jesus tells a parable about a landowner who planted a
vineyard and leased it to tenants. He sends servants to retrieve the produce from
the land and each time the tenants seized the servants and killed them. Lastly, the
landowner sends his son, thinking they will treat him with respect, but the tenants act
in the same way because of his inheritance. Jesus used this parable to explain to us
that if you don’t appreciate what you have and treat it right, it can be taken, just as the
landowner fires the tenants. We can reflect on this parable by thinking of ways that
we could treat the world and those around us better. If we take the time to reflect on
this, we can help to make the world a better place.

Sarah Blackstone
Respiratory Care ’23

                                                                         19 Lent Daily Reflections

Micah 7:14-15 18-20; Psalm 103:1-4 9-12; Luke 15:1-3, 11-32
       March 14, 2020
       SECOND SATURDAY OF LENT

       Often times when something bad happens in our life, we blame ourselves, others,
       and sometimes even God. It’s easy to get caught up in the bad times, but it’s
       important to remember that we don’t have to go through these times alone.

       “The Lord is kind and merciful”—
       Christ seeks endlessly to support us through our struggles; he understands all of
       our worry, anger, and distress. No matter what, God will be there with open arms,
       whenever we are ready to accept Him.

       This Psalm is a reminder to me that although bad things happen in life, God is always
       there. He yearns to help pick us up, guide us through the hurt, and reassure our
       worried hearts. Even times we may turn our back on God, He will NEVER turn His
       back on us even when it feels like He could.

       Stellanie X. Kyros, ’21
       Health Management, Behavioral Health & Modern Greek

20 Lent Daily Reflections

Exodus 17:3-7; Psalm 95:1-2, 6-9; Romans 5:1-2, 5-8; John 4:5-42
March 15, 2020
THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT

“Is the LORD in our midst or not?” (Ex. 17-7)

Let’s rejoice, because He truly is!!!

When the Israelites left Egypt, they grumbled against Moses in their thirst for water,
so Moses cried out to the Lord. The Lord answered Moses and told him to strike a
rock so the water flew from it for people to drink; He assured Moses that he would
be standing there in front of him on the rock in Horeb.

No matter how difficult is the situation that we are going through, do not be afraid,
trust our Lord, be thankful and confident that He is close to you. How blessed we are
to know that our Lord is always with us! We are His children and His Divine Presence
is our Force, our Shield, our Refuge, and the Rock of our Salvation. “If God brings
you to it, He will bring you through it”.

Ada F. Lovo-Martinez
College of Learning & Innovation

                                                                      21 Lent Daily Reflections

2Kings 5:1-15; Psalm 42:2-3, 43:3-4; Luke 4:24-30
       March 16, 2020
       THIRD MONDAY OF LENT

       In the first reading, Naaman seeks healing of his leprosy. When he finally got to the
       prophet Elisha, he was told to wash himself in the river. Furious, Naaman walked
       away. He had come so far. Couldn’t the waters near his homeland have healed him?
       He wanted an earth-shattering, dramatic healing. After all, he bathed before and
       nothing changed.

       One of his servants asked him, “if the prophet had told you to do something
       extraordinary, would you not have done it?” Naaman, realized, “what could it hurt?”
       So, he went to the river and bathed, dipping in seven times as instructed. No
       extraordinary actions, the most mundane of tasks. And he was healed.

       Often, I too look for great signs and wonders. I wonder, if there is no fanfare, is there
       impact? Most of us live the ordinary. Maybe doing ordinary tasks of daily living with
       intentionality, making eye contact, watching the tone of my voice, really listening, is
       the miracle.

       I can concentrate the rest of my Lenten journey on making everyday interactions
       intentional. Both Mother Teresa and St. Therese of Lisieux have reminded us that we
       aren’t all called to do great things, but all of us can do small things with great love.

       Siobhan De Witt, MA
       Center for Mercy Heritage and Service, Campus Ministry

22 Lent Daily Reflections

Daniel 3:25 34-43; Psalm 25:4-9; Matthew 18:21-35
March 17, 2020
THIRD TUESDAY OF LENT

The story in the Gospel reminded me of a poster I had hanging in my room growing
up that now lives in my office. It was a collection of verses commonly attributed to
Mother Teresa called “Do It Anyway”. In life, there will be people who are unkind or
selfish. There are those like the servant who may take advantage of your generosity
and mercy and not pay it forward. The good you do may go unappreciated, your
effort may go unnoticed, your hard work and creation may be destroyed. But it is
important to do good anyway, despite all of this. Because like Mother Teresa says, in
the final analysis it is between you and God. It was never between you and
them anyway.

Devon Jennings, ’19

                                                                     23 Lent Daily Reflections

Daniel 3:25 34-43; Psalm 25:4-9; Matthew 18:21-35
       March 18, 2020
       THIRD WEDNESDAY OF LENT

       I feel privilege in many ways, and I value that privilege most when I am able to
       appreciate what it might be like to live a life with less of it. When Moses, at God’s
       calling, taught Israelites the Commandments, he warned that they needed to do
       more than simply adhere to these new laws. Moses beseeched the Israelites to
       remember their past, and to speak of that past to all future generations. As someone
       not familiar with Christian scripture, my interpretation of Moses’ cautioning is that to
       truly understand God and to embrace Him, one must be able to contrast a life with
       Him and His teachings to one without. I think that regardless of our belief systems we
       all share in the opportunity to look beyond ourselves, but that in order to do so we
       must first be able to look back on ourselves.

       Keith Cerroni
       Student Affairs, Resident Life

24 Lent Daily Reflections

2Samuel 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16; Psalm 89:2-5, 27, 29; Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24a
March 19, 2020
THIRD THURSDAY OF LENT

The Gospel today describes how the birth of Jesus came about. Matthew draws
attention to Jesus’ legal origin as a Jew and focuses on Jesus’ relationship to Joseph.
Let us look at the role of Joseph in this Gospel. When did Mary tell Joseph that she
was going to become the Mother of Jesus? Think about the confusion Joseph must
have felt when he heard this from Mary. To help him deal with his confusion, an Angel
appeared to him in his sleep and told Joseph “Not to fear.” Joseph, a just man, had
no relation with Mary before she became his wife.

One cannot even imagine Joseph’s confusion, but we cannot fail to acknowledge his
acceptance as Mary’s husband and the earthly father of Jesus.

Matthew portrays Jesus as identified with the deepest experiences of his people:
persecution, sorrow, exile, Exodus.

The Gospel of Matthew invites us to reflect on our own life experiences.

This Lenten Season challenges us to enliven our own faith, our lives, and our love.

Sr. Mary Joy Haywood, RSM
Professor Emerita

                                                                      25 Lent Daily Reflections

Hosea 14:12-14a, 16; Psalm 81:6-11, 14, 17; Mark 12:28-34
       March 20, 2020
       THIRD FRIDAY OF LENT

        “I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.” (Ps 81:11)
       “An unfamiliar speech I hear:
       I relieved his shoulder of the burden;
       his hands were freed from the basket.
       In distress you called, and I rescued you.” (Ps 81:7)

       I picked this part of the verse because it was the one that resonated the most with
       me. To me, this verse was extremely comforting to read, especially if I was in a time
       of need. What I get out of this verse is that no matter what is going on in your life or
       what you are carrying with you, you can call out to God and receive a sense of peace
       and calmness. God will help to relieve anxiety if you ask for that help, and to me that
       is something that brings me a lot of peace and helps to put me at ease.

       Maddie Canel, ’20
       Psychology

26 Lent Daily Reflections

Hosea 6:1-6; Psalm 51:3-4, 18-21ab; Luke 18:9-14
March 21, 2020
THIRD SATURDAY OF LENT

Giving honor and glory and praise to our God and thanking God for mercy, grace,
and everlasting love. I am thankful for each day that God allows me to awake, see
the sunshine, and walk on this earth. God has blessed me with sane mind and able
body. All I am asked to do is have faith and be a light that will shine to represent the
love of God. Now, God did not say things were going to be easy as we go about
our life’s journey. As a matter of fact, God made us aware that we will have trials
and tribulation, but how we deal with our everyday concerns is when we need to
stay focused on the Lord. It is through our faith that we have understanding of the
Holy Spirit that lives in us. As we work through our life experiences, the knowledge
of God can work in us and begin a transformation of a spiritual and moral cleaning
that we praise, rejoice, and give thanksgiving. Hosea makes God’s mercy clear when
in the scripture Hosea reference, “He will revive us after two days, on the third day
raise us up, to live in his presence. It was through the death and the raising of Jesus
Christ that we know God is a forgiving merciful God when he gave us the gift of
EVERLASTING LIFE.

Praise Be to GOD.

Betsy M. Hunt
Student Affairs, Center for Disability Services

                                                                        27 Lent Daily Reflections

1Samual 16:6-7, 10-13a; Psalm 23:1-6; Ephesians 5:8-14; John 9:1-41
       March 22, 2020
       FOURTH SUNDAY IN LENT

       This message is theological: Not as man sees but God sees, because man sees the
       appearance, but God looks into the heart. Goodness, righteousness and truth are
       three distinct virtues. We should always try or strive to do what is right, even when it
       is not easy. Light is an illusion to Baptism, the sacrament of enlightenment. Through
       their Baptism, people become daughters and sons of the Light, members of Christ,
       the Light of the World. By this transformation process, a new light is gained and
       our deeds are the fruit of the new anointing we receive, and the fragrant perfume of
       Christ that fills the earth. The words, “goodness, righteousness and truth” are derived
       from the light, and emphasizes the benefits to the community’s life benevolence,
       respect for the rights of others, and sincerity in word and action. Christian behavior is
       a ray of light that does not merely offset the deeds of darkness, it transforms them.
       The true Apostle of Christ is an apostle of light to the world.

       Dr. Earl Bradford Smith, PhD
       College of Leadership and Social Change, Social Work

28 Lent Daily Reflections

Isaiah 65: 17-21; Psalm 30:2,4-6,11-13; John 4:43-54
March 23, 2020
FOURTH MONDAY OF LENT

I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me. (Ps 30:2a)

Growing up, I thought that being rescued was a sign of weakness. Having someone
else be responsible for correcting an error I had made was one of the things
that I dreaded.

Over the years though, God’s kindness has shone through others that have been
placed in my life. These have been passing strangers to dear friends who have shown,
through big and small ways, that being rescued is a gift. In our world, weakness is
often something to be ashamed of, but there is power in knowing when we need to
be saved.

There are so many dark moments in life, but there is no shame in being grateful for
the sunrise. There is so much sadness that when we are granted a joyous moment,
we should take it.

We should not only revel in the rescue but rejoice that we can be.

Caitlin Way
Student Affairs

                                                                     29 Lent Daily Reflections

IsaEzekiel 47:1-9, 12; Psalm 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9; John 5:1-16
       March 24, 2020
       FOURTH TUESDAY OF LENT

       I have been painfully crippled for the last three years. If Jesus walked up to me today
       and said, “Do you want to be well?”, I would respond, “You’re kidding, right? Is the
       Pope Catholic? Heck yes, I want to be well.” It’s a no-brainer question.

       But when Jesus asked a man who had been crippled for 38 years the same question,
       he didn’t say “YES!” He had been sitting by the Pool of Bethesda for many years,
       waiting to be healed by being the first to enter the healing waters when they stirred.
       Jesus asked him, pointblank. “Do you want to be well?” and all the man did was
       make excuses for why he would never be healed: “There’s no one to help me.
       Everybody is faster. Everyone always beats me to it. Life is not fair.” What a silly man.

       Why wouldn’t he choose healing? Why wouldn’t he want to be free to rise and pick
       up his mat, and know the joy of being healed rather than holding on to the pain of
       brokenness? Why wouldn’t he want to walk upright, and stand blameless, ready
       for... for what? Ready to be free to give and receive God’s love with the mercy and
       forgiveness that God had showed him? Ready to take on the responsibility of being
       well? With no excuses left to cling to. Just the freedom to serve. That’s a big about-
       face in life. What would I do with all that freedom?

       On second thought, do I really want to be well? Hummmm. I’m going to have to think
       about that and get back to you.

       Kate McConnell
       Student Affairs, Career Services

30 Lent Daily Reflections

Isaiah 7:10-14, 8:10; Psalm 40:7-11; Luke 1:26-38
March 25, 2020
FOURTH WEDNESDAY OF LENT

Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord

As the Lord spoke to Ahaz telling him to ask for a sign from the Lord your God, I
reflect on the many signs I continue to receive from the Lord. The Lord helped me
to defeat cancer by sending me an intern who asked me to get a CAT Scan just as a
precaution and, with it, found a tumor. After going into cardiac arrest running a 5k
race, the Lord sent me two heroes who performed CPR on me until the paramedics
arrived with an AED. I believe I was sent a sign through one of my former students
to start a basketball team here at Carlow to help students have a chance of pursuing
their dreams of getting an education while participating in athletics. I will continue to
watch for the Lord’s signs to help our young people.

Tim Keefer
Student Affairs
Athletics, Men’s Basketball

                                                                        31 Lent Daily Reflections

Exodus 32:7-14; Psalm 106:19-23; John 5:31-47
       March 26, 2020
       FOURTH THURSDAY OF LENT

       God was about to punish His people for worshiping false gods while waiting for
       Moses to return. God was about to bring His wrath on the people of Israel to teach
       them a lesson. Moses was able to talk to God and remind Him that these were His
       people whom He took out of Israel to make a better life for. His wrath would destroy
       all that He loved, and the Egyptians would say He took them for no reason, just to kill
       them in the mountains. God listened to what Moses said and did not punish
       the Israelites.

       Anger is something that comes on quickly and can make you do something you will
       later regret. Remember to do as God did, think over the situation, talk to those you
       trust, and listen to your heart. If God can relent and not punish His people for their
       wrongs, what gives us the right to punish those who wronged us? Forgiveness is
       something we need to learn, one of the best lessons God has shown us by example.

       Lynn Rush ’23
       Accounting
       University Mailroom

32 Lent Daily Reflections

Wisdom 2:1a, 12-22; Psalm 34:17-21, 23; John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30
March 27, 2020
FOURTH FRIDAY OF LENT

The responsorial psalm today deeply moved me, because I think it is exactly what
many of us need to hear. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” With so much
hurt and injustice going on in the world today it can be difficult to remember that
God is always with us. Even when we feel at our absolute lowest, God is there to lift
us back up. We may all experience times of doubt and wonder how God could allow
such terrible things to happen to ourselves and others. I have found that in my own
times of sorrow seeking out God’s love and guidance is the best form of healing. God
may not be able to stop every inconvenience, either big or little, from occurring but
he is able to mend our broken hearts and souls.

This Lenten season I urge you to open yourself to the love that God has to offer, no
matter how broken you may feel.

Emma Wilson, ’21
Respiratory Care
Student Government Association, President; Resident Assistant

                                                                     33 Lent Daily Reflections

Jeremiah 11:18-20; Psalm 7:2,3,9b-12; John 7:40-53
       March 28, 2020
       FOURTH SATURDAY OF LENT

       O LORD, my God, in you I take refuge;
       save me from all my pursuers and rescue me,
       Lest I become like the lion’s prey,
       to be torn to pieces, with no one to rescue me.(Ps 7:2-3)

       Through the Responsorial Psalm and the reflection readings, I am reminded that we
       must resolve to trust in God in All Things and Always. We should commit to trust Him
       first and foremost because of Who and Whose He IS.

       God is our refuge in our time of need, and we should always remember to trust
       and lean on Him. God has a plan for our lives, and He knows when the road to our
       destination may be difficult. Even when others wish us harm and seek to sabotage
       our destiny plans, God knows, He sees, and He will be the Judge.

       In God We Trust should be our prayer and our commitment always. In this
       commitment we should Rejoice for “This is Christ!”

       Bridgette N. Cofield, JD
       Human Resources
       Diversity & Inclusion

34 Lent Daily Reflections

Ezra 37:12-14; Psalm 130:1-8; Romans 8:8-11; John 11:1-45
March 29, 2020
FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT

I often forget who I am in Christ. I get caught up in the loudness of life, focus on
everything but my faith and spirituality.

While reading my assignment, a song popped into my head. It’s title, “Same Power,”
(Jeremy Camp), says: “The same power that rose Jesus from the grave, the same
power that commands the dead to wake, lives in us.” It immediately brought me back
to the second reading:

“But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the spirit is ALIVE
because of His righteousness. If the spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the
dead, dwells in you, the one who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your
mortal bodies also, through his spirit dwelling in you.” (Rom 8:8-11)

The key here is HIS spirit dwelling in YOU. How amazing is that? In all our sin, failure,
shortcomings, the pain we cause, or our selfishness, remember, it can all be forgiven.
Even on our worst days, in the worst circumstances, and in the lowest of lows, we are
loved, we are forgiven and we are redeemed by God.

Kathleen Kelley, ’14

                                                                        35 Lent Daily Reflections

Ezekiel 37:12-14; Psalm 130:1-8; Romans 8:8-11; John 7:40-53
       March 30, 2020
       FIFTH MONDAY OF LENT

       Today in scripture we are reminded of one of the less seemly attributes of human
       nature. I speak not of the dishonesty illustrated in the Book of Daniel, nor of the
       apparent inequity in John’s Gospel of a woman being “caught in adultery,” with no
       mention of the partner with whom she committed the sin. I speak instead of the
       willingness of the unnamed others to believe the accusations brought against
       both women.

       I believe we’d all do well to remember just how precious, and how fragile, every
       person’s reputation is before we engage in gossip. As a proverb I once read reminds
       us, “Words are so powerful they should only be used to bless, to heal, and to
       prosper.” How sad it is when our words are used instead to curse, to injure, and
       to scorn.

       Rev. Paul Merkovsky
       University Chaplain

36 Lent Daily Reflections

Numbers 21:4-9; Psalm 102:2-3, 16-21; John 8:21-30
March 31, 2019
FIFTH TUESDAY OF LENT

Jesus really was a child of God and a child of Mary and Joseph. He acquiesced to his
mother’s request at the wedding at Cana even as an adult, and showed His humanity
to us in His less than enthusiastic acceptance of God’s wishes for Him at times.
Throughout Jesus’ life on earth He gave us both the divine and human, a way for us
to see ourselves in Him and yet what we aspire to be. No matter the age, we are a
child to our parents and need to obey and respect them. This scripture summarizes
the very typical relationship of child and parent in that He does nothing on His own
but that His Father has never left Him alone.

Jennifer O’Toole
Student Affairs, Career Services

                                                                   37 Lent Daily Reflections

Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95; Daniel 3:52-56; John 8:31-42
       April 1, 2020
       FIFTH WEDNESDAY OF LENT

       When reflecting on the Gospel two phrases come together to alert the reader to a danger,
       and to provide a protection from that danger. Jesus answers a question about becoming
       free by saying, in part “…Everyone who commits a sin becomes a slave of sin, and later
       explains” … “because my word has no room in you.”

       It strikes me that our world is often so full of claims on our time and attention, that we make
       no room for the very reflection this Lenten journal invites. We engage in behaviors and
       thoughts that are so worldly that we neglect our own divinity. We become slavish in our
       regard for outward rewards and trending motivations, in the sin of prideful ignorance of the
       Divine rather than inhabiting in His word, or in constructing room in our lives for His word.
       But the solution is provided as well: MAKE ROOM.

       A new trend toward mindfulness and meditation seeks to bring an awareness of ourselves
       and the present moment. Prayer is the original mindfulness, and an awareness of our
       combined humanness and divinity builds the room for Jesus; Word and Wisdom.

       In John 14:2-3, when Jesus tells us that his Father’s house has many rooms, and a place is
       prepared for us there, it is a prophecy of peace and belonging for eternity. We can at least
       join in that hospitality and make room here as children of God for His wisdom and word in
       order to free ourselves from the slavery of sin, like the pride that keeps us from building and
       inhabiting that room with the Divine.

       Jacqueline Smith
       Student Affairs, Center for Disability Services

38 Lent Daily Reflections

Genesis 17:3-9; Psalm 105:4-9; John 8:51-59
April 2, 2020
FIFTH THURSDAY OF LENT

The reading from Genesis spoke to me about the Covenant we make with God to;

I.     Follow His teachings
II.    Take care of our environment
III.   Learn about social issues that we are dealing with in this changing world.

In verse nine, God also said to Abraham, “On your part, you and your descendants
after you must keep my covenant throughout the ages.”

I know that in my family it was hard for my parents to share their life story with me.
After reading this passage, I feel that our family history is the best gift they can
leave us.

During Lent, I hope you will spend time learning about God’s history and your own.

Marlene Unverdorben
Campus Laboratory School of Carlow University

                                                                        39 Lent Daily Reflections

Jeremiah 20:10-13; Psalm 18:2-7; John 10:31-42
       April 3, 2020
       FIFTH FRIDAY OF LENT

       Doubt is so human, but raise your voice and call upon God, Who’ll answer!
       Immediately after reading the first two readings, I remembered a sonnet I wrote in
       2002. My sonnet, based on Isaiah 50, tells my experience:
       God used my well-trained tongue to give a warning
       to the weary that they would truly hear
       a word to rouse them. Morning after morning
       that I might hear, God opened up my ear.
       All who see me scoff at me and stare
       they mock with parted lips; they wag their heads
       she relied on God; let Him deliver her
       let Him rescue her; that is what they said.
       Indeed by dogs have I been surrounded
       a pack of evil doers closed me in;
       they pierced my hands and feet, my head they wounded
       I count my bones and whip marks on my skin.
       I have not rebelled, have not turned to flee;
       Because of this, God has exalted me.

       Christine Aikens Wolf ’69, ’99
       Madwoman in the Attic

40 Lent Daily Reflections

Ezra 37:21-28; Jeremiah 31:10-13; John 11:45-56
April 4, 2020
FIFTH SATURDAY OF LENT

As the Lord calls His scattered flock together in this Psalm, it reminded me about
calling upon yourself to find all the pieces of yourself. When life gets busy, it can
sometimes feel like you are getting pulled in many different directions and in this
process you may leave pieces of yourself behind. It is important to stop for a moment
and go back, collect all your pieces, and become a whole person again. In attempts to
always know myself and keep my pieces together I find joy.

Caitlin Hoag ’22
Respiratory Therapy

                                                                    41 Lent Daily Reflections

Isaiah 42:1-7; Psalm 27:1-3, 13-14; John 12:1-11
       April 6, 2020
       MONDAY OF HOLY WEEK

       “The Lord is my light and my salvation” is a Psalm that particularly resonates with me.
       Each day we are confronted with challenges and obstacles. How we handle this often
       depends upon our belief and faith in God. There are times in our life when it seems
       all hope is lost. Maybe we have endured a hardship such as a death, loss of job, or
       illness. I have found that even in the toughest of times, my faith and hope and the
       belief that God is present, has enabled me to better handle what comes my way. At
       times, our trust in God will be tested and we will have many questions as to the why,
       but knowing God and allowing him to enter your heart may help you to overcome the
       bad days. Let God be the light in even the darkest of hours.

       Jason Krall
       Academic Operations

42 Lent Daily Reflections

Isaiah 49:1-6; Psalm 71:1-6, 15, 17; John 12:1-11
April 7, 2020
TUESDAY OF HOLY WEEK

Seeds Planted

In validation of my professional career, earning a degree in Early Childhood
Education in 2006 ...in first choosing my profession I have to go back and reflect on
my love and commitment to young children from the very beginning of who I was.

Again, Early Childhood Education in profession, but caregiver from the human spirit
in me. Caring and nurturing in my service to my Lord...

Most of these young children are now adults and pursuing their own education and
lifestyles. I am grateful that I have been spared to witness their seeds, which I shared
with their parents and families to plant and water to fruition gives me inner joy in
today as I reflect …

Now in my retired years ...I recognize other’s in God’s gift to me.

Andrea Coleman-Betts, M.Ed. ’06
Carlow Alumni Advisory Council

                                                                       43 Lent Daily Reflections

Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 69:8-10,21-22, 31, 33-34; Matthew 26:14-25
       April 8, 2020
       WEDNESDAY OF HOLY WEEK

       I think this passage means to forgive and forget, even if it is tough to forgive someone
       who has done wrong to you, you have to remember that there is a reason for
       everything and that God works in mysterious ways. The human race will never know
       what God is going to do, but we just have to be faithful and put our hope in Jesus
       and God.

       Evan Kwiecinski ’20
       Campus Laboratory School of Carlow

44 Lent Daily Reflections

Exodus 12:8, 11-14; Psalm 116:12-13, 15-18; I Corinthians 11:23-26; John 13:1-15;
Philippians 2:6-11; Matthew 26:14-27:66
April 9, 2020
HOLY THURSDAY

“As”: a huge two-letter word.

When someone we love passes, we often reflect on the end of their life: their final
wishes, their last days, their parting advice. This is what I love about Holy Thursday:
we get a glimpse of Jesus’ last meal with his friends, we watch him get arrested and
we listen to him pray as he is led away by soldiers. In these dramatic passages of
scripture, the word that stands out to me most is “as”. Jesus invites his disciples to
“love one another as I loved you”, he asks that “all may be one, as you (the Father)
and I are one”. “As”: I could spend Holy Thursday reflecting on this word alone. “As”
becomes such a huge word. To love “as” Jesus loved, to be united among ourselves
“as” Jesus and the Father are united: these are high standards. But this is the
measure we are called to. And so the word “as” pushes me to be more ready to put
aside my self-interest, to be more willing to serve others, to live with more energy
for those around me. I often fail but on Holy Thursday I feel called on to hit a reset
button and help to generate spaces where “loving one another” is the norm.

Kate O’Brien
Center for Mercy Heritage and Service, Mercy Service

                                                                       45 Lent Daily Reflections

Isaiah 52:13-53:12; Psalm 31:2, 6, 12-13, 15-17, 25; Hebrews 4:14, 16, 5:7-9; John 18:1-
       19:42
       April 10, 2020
       GOOD FRIDAY

       “Upon him was the chastisement that makes us whole” (Is 53:5)

       Who can comprehend this statement? Chastisement, admonition, blame, castigation,
       rebuke, punishment. I run from these possibilities. I might assign responsibility for
       things that go wrong to others and make sure at the same time that I am far from
       blame. I need to do that so that I can think well of myself. I try to do all the right things
       in the right way at the right time. Secretly, I know I have failings, but I certainly don’t
       want them to be apparent to others.

       Who is this God who is so magnificent that He would assign his son, his beloved, to
       take on all the chastisement, the blame, the punishment for what we, his creatures
       have done? This is not how it should play out.

       I weep for my part in this terrible crime. I weep because I am overwhelmed by
       such love.

       Sister Mary M. Fanning, RSM, PhD
       Board of Trustees

46 Lent Daily Reflections

Genesis 1:1-2:2; Psalm 104:1-2 5-6 10-14 25, 35; Genesis 22:1-18; Psalm 16:5, 8-11;
Exodus 14:15-15:1; Exodus 15:1-6, 17-18; Isaiah 54:5-14; Psalm 30:2, 4-6, 11-13; Isaiah
55:1-11; Isaiah 12:2-6, Baruch 3:9-15; 32c4:4; Psalm 19:8-11; Ezekiel 36:16-17a, 18-28,
Psalm 42:3, 5, 43:3-4; Romans 6:3-11; Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-2; Matthew 28:1-10
April 11, 2020
EASTER VIGIL

Over the past 40 days, we have spent our time fasting, asking God for forgiveness,
and preparing for and mourning the death of His Son, Jesus Christ. However, tonight
is no time for mourning and sadness, it is a time for celebration.

Thus says the Lord:
All you who are thirsty,
come to the water!
You who have no money,
come, receive grain and eat;
come, without paying and without cost,
drink wine and milk! (Is 51:1-6)

With every celebration there is eating and drinking. The Lord invites the “thirsty”
and those “who have no money”, the spiritually thirsty and spiritually poor, to this
celebration. He wants to nourish and replenish our souls that have fasted for the past
40 days. We accept this invitation by renewing our baptismal promises and blessing
ourselves with holy water. Now we go, celebrate the Resurrection and spread the
Good News.

Clare Duffus ’21
Nursing
                                                                     47 Lent Daily Reflections

Acts 10:34a, 37-43; Psalm 118:1-2, 16, 17, 22-23; Colossians 3:1-4; Matthew 28:1-10
       April 12, 2020
       EASTER SUNDAY

       Christ has Risen! Alleluia!

       “His mercy endures forever”

       “I shall not die, but live”

       The readings are wonderful for today – but the Psalm readings really resonate with
       me coming through Lent to Easter Day.

       I am reminded that when I didn’t do what I should have done or if I do something that
       I should not have, His mercy will be there for me. I can be a mess or mess things up,
       but with His help and mercy, I can start a new day with hope!

       A new day, a new Way and life with the Lord in Heaven! Thank you, Jesus for our
       Salvation! Rejoice and be glad! Alleluia!

       Judith Halterlein
       Work Study Coordinator
       Student Service Associate

48 Lent Daily Reflections

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thank you to these members of the Carlow Community including students, faculty,
staff, alumna, The Campus Laboratory School staff and students, Sisters of Mercy
and Carlow University friends who share their faith with you through their reflection.
As you enjoy this, the 14th Annual Lenten Journal. Please remember them in your
prayers as we journey together.

Christine Aikens Wolf                         Jason Krall
Grace Barry                                   Evan Kwiecinski
Patricia Beaumont                             Stellanie Kyros
Andrea Betts                                  Ada Lovo-Martinez
Sarah Blackstone                              Bernie Lukacs
Maddie Canel                                  Joanne Malenock
Dr. Mary-Paula Cancienne, RSM                 Kate McConnell
Sr. Sheila Carney, RSM                        Rev. Paul Merkovsky
Keith Cerroni                                 Natalie Mukankusi
Bridgette N. Cofield                          Shawn K. Nelson
Siobhan K. De Witt                            Kate O’Brien
Noble Dixon                                   Jennifer O’Toole
Julia Draper                                  Evie Passero
Clare Duffus                                  Nicole Ravas
Sr. Mary Fanning, RSM                         Lynn Rush
Kenneth J Ference                             Jeffrey Schaffer
Jade Giacobbe                                 Sr. Michelle Schroeck, RSM
Daniel Hall                                   Earl Brad Smith
Judith Halterlein                             Jacqueline Smith
Sr. Mary Joy Haywood, RSM                     Marlene Unverdorben
Caitlin Hoag                                  Caitlyn Way
Betsy Hunt                                    Emma Wilson
Devon Jennings
Barbara Johnson
Tim Keefer
Kathleen Kelley

                                                                   49 Lent Daily Reflections

CAMPUS MINISTRY
      Now Is the Acceptable Time was created for the Carlow University community
      by The Center for Mercy Heritage and Service, Office of Campus Ministry. You
      may access it online by visiting our website at www.carlow.edu/Campusministry.

      Questions and comments may be directed to:

      Campusministry@carlow.edu

      Or

      Center for Mercy Heritage and Service
      Campus Ministry
      Carlow University
      3333 Fifth Avenue
      Pittsburgh, PA 15213

      Carlow University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution.
      Produced in cooperation with Marketing and Communications. 1105419TH

50 Lent Daily Reflections

CARLOW.EDU

             51 Lent Daily Reflections