Friday, February 16, 2024

Fourth Day of Lent


On a brisk winter day at St. Boniface Grade School, the wind whistled as it dusted the grounds with fresh snow. Inside the warmth of the classroom, Sister Mary Claire stood by the blackboard that boldly declared 'Jesus is Arrested', ready to impart a lesson of faith and friendship to young Kathy.

"Kathy," Sister Mary Claire started, her voice as calm as the falling snow, "let us imagine the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus spent his final free moments. It was a night that teaches us about loyalty and fear."

Kathy, her pigtails gently brushed by the heater's breath, turned her attention to Sister Mary Claire, her youthful eyes wide with anticipation.

"The Apostles, Jesus' closest friends, were with him in the garden. He asked only for their company, their presence, but even that proved too much when fear gripped their hearts," Sister Mary Claire said, her hand lightly touching the open book that spoke of the disciples’ terror.

"The cold we feel outside," she continued, "is much like the chill of isolation Jesus felt when those he loved fled. The betrayal wasn't just in Judas' kiss but in the abandonment by those he called friends."

Kathy's expression grew solemn, sensing the gravity of the moment Sister Mary Claire described.

"But remember, Kathy, while his friends failed him in that hour, Jesus never failed to love them. He forgave their weakness, as we must forgive those who may let us down," Sister Mary Claire explained, her voice imbued with kindness.

"The snow outside will melt, the seasons will change, and our fears will pass, just as the Apostles’ fear did. They returned to be the founders of the Church, stronger for their trials."

Kathy nodded slowly, understanding that from mistakes and fear can come strength and redemption.

Sister Mary Claire smiled gently, content that the lesson had found its way into Kathy's heart. She knew that the stories of faith could turn the coldest winter into a hopeful lesson about the resilience of the human spirit.

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