Scripture Reading
18 The Lord is near to them that are of a contrite heart;
and will save the lowly in spirit.
Devotional Reflection
As Great Lent continues, something subtle can happen.
• We become aware of our weaknesses.
• Our failures feel clearer.
• Our inconsistencies feel heavier.
And sometimes, when we see our shortcomings, we assume God must feel distant.
But today’s psalm says the opposite.
One of the quiet lies of the spiritual life is this:
“If I’ve failed, God must be far away.”
But Scripture says the opposite.
When your heart feels broken —
When your spirit feels humbled —
When you feel exposed in your weakness —
That is where He comes closest.
Repentance is not running from God.
It is running toward Him.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
When my heart feels heavy, remind me that You are close.
When I see my weakness, keep me from despair.
Create in me true contrition — not shame, but humility.
Draw near to me as I draw near to You.
And let this Lent deepen not my fear — but my trust.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,
Amen.