Daily Reflection Thursday after Ash Wednesday

As we journey through Lent, Jesus’ words remind us that discipleship requires sacrifice, self-denial, and trust. He speaks openly about His suffering, rejection, and death—but also of resurrection. This is the heart of our faith: through the cross comes new life. Early in my journey of faith this was something I had great resistance to, but as time progressed, the heart of the matter, the love that is revealed by sacrifice became to clear as the vital element of discipleship.



Lent calls us to reflect on what it means to “take up our cross daily.” It’s not just about enduring hardship but about choosing love over comfort, selflessness over self-interest, and faith over fear. In Ignatian spirituality, we are invited to detach from what holds us back—our need for control, approval, or security—and surrender more fully to God.



Jesus’ words challenge the world’s definition of success. Society tells us to chase wealth and status, but He reminds us that gaining everything means nothing if we lose ourselves. Lent is a time to realign our hearts, stripping away distractions and asking: Am I truly following Christ, or am I clinging to my own desires?



Our daily crosses may be struggles, difficult relationships, or simply the challenge of putting others before ourselves. Whatever they are, Jesus walks with us. When we surrender to Him, we do not lose ourselves—we become who we were meant to be.



This Lent, may we embrace our crosses with trust, knowing that every sacrifice made in love leads us closer to Christ. And with Him, after every cross, resurrection awaits.



I'm including a link to a song that early on in my faith was a great help to me as I learned the beauty and love that call the Paschal Mystery into existence. Pray with it however the Spirit moves you.