The Kindness of Asking and Receiving: Thursday of the First Week of Lent

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.”

In Matthew 7:7-12, Jesus assures us of God's generosity. This text also teaches us about human relationships. We all know The Golden Rule, "Do to others whatever you would have them do to you", reminds us that kindness is not only about giving but also about receiving with humility.

I must admit that sometimes I have a hard time asking for help. Maybe this comes from a fear of being seen as weak, of imposing on others, or losing control. Jesus encourages us to trust in God’s care and in the kindness of those around us. When we allow ourselves to receive, we open the door to kindness and community.

Spiritual Reflection

Kindness is not just about what we do for others but also about how we allow ourselves to be helped. Some of the greatest acts of love happen when we let others support us. To ask and receive is to build relationships of trust.

St. Thérèse of Lisieux (1873–1897), also known as "The Little Flower", was a French Carmelite nun who became one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic Church. She is best known for her “Little Way”, a simple, childlike approach to holiness through small acts of love and kindness done for God.

In her book, “Little Way”, St. Thérèse wrote, “A word or a smile is often enough to put fresh life in a despondent soul.” Too often, we underestimate the power of a small act of kindness, a simple smile, a gentle word, a listening ear. We do not need grand gestures; the smallest expressions of love can lift a weary heart.

Spiritual Empowerment

Today, practice both asking and giving. Knock on the door of someone’s heart with trust, and be open to responding when someone knocks on yours. Sometimes, simply allowing yourself to receive a smile or a kind word is an act of humble love.

Pray

Lord, help me to trust in your generosity and in the kindness of others. Let me be humble enough to ask and generous enough to give, so that in all things, your love may be revealed. Amen.