Day Eight: Ask, Seek, Knock
Thursday, First Week of Lent

Scripture Passage:
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7)

Opening Reflection:
Lent is a time of deep prayer, a season where God invites us to draw closer to Him with trust and perseverance. Jesus’ words in today’s Gospel remind us that our Heavenly Father desires to hear our prayers, to provide for our needs, and to welcome us into His presence. Too often, we hesitate to ask, fearing we are unworthy or that God will not respond. Yet, Jesus assures us that God listens to those who come before Him with faith, persistence, and humility.

Meditative Reflection:
Prayer is not simply a request list we present to God; it is a journey of seeking and discovering His will for our lives. When we ask, seek, and knock, we do so not only for what we desire but for what God desires for us. His answers may not always be immediate or in the way we expect, but He never ignores a sincere heart.

Consider your own prayer life. Do you pray with confidence, or do doubts hold you back? Do you seek God’s presence daily, or only in times of desperation? This Lent, let us recommit to a life of consistent prayer, one that trusts in God’s perfect timing and providence. He is waiting for us to come to Him with faith, knowing that every prayer draws us closer to His heart.

Reflection Questions:

  • Do I truly trust that God hears my prayers, even when the answer seems delayed?
  • How can I grow in perseverance and faithfulness in my daily prayer life?

Lenten Question:
Q: Why is persistence in prayer important?
A: Persistence in prayer strengthens our faith and deepens our relationship with God. It teaches us trust, patience, and surrender to His divine will.

Lenten Action:
Set aside extra time today for prayer. Pray not just for your own needs but also for someone who may be struggling. Knock on the door of God’s mercy with faith, trusting that He will answer.

Concluding Prayer:
Heavenly Father, You invite me to come to You in prayer with faith and perseverance. Help me to trust that You always hear me, even when I do not immediately see the answers I seek. Teach me to align my desires with Your will and to never lose hope in Your love. May this Lenten season be a time of deeper prayer and intimacy with You. Amen.

Resources for Lenten Prayers and Reflections:

Daily Saints and Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Lenten Reflections | EWTN | https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/reflections/lent

Lenten Prayers and Daily Reflections | My Catholic Life | https://mycatholic.life/lent-prayers-reflections/