Optional Memorial of Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

Brief Background:

St. Cyril of Jerusalem (c. 313–386 AD) was a bishop and early Church Father known for teaching the faith clearly, especially to those preparing for Baptism. Despite being exiled several times during Church conflicts, he remained faithful to his mission. His Catechetical Lectures helped shape how the Church understands the Creed and the Sacraments. He was later named a Doctor of the Church and is a patron of catechists and those entering the Church.

REFLECTION:

Watching the videos this past week of workers and recovery crews clearing the roads after the Kona storm… it was powerful. You could see the effort, the long hours, the determination to restore what had been damaged.

It also brought me back to the time of the Lahaina fires—images of people running into danger, helping others escape, guiding them to safety. We often call that bravery. We call it courage. And it is. But underneath that courage is something even deeper: love. A love for people. A love for community. A love that is willing to step in, even when it’s hard, inconvenient, or risky. And if we look closely, we see that same kind of love in quieter, everyday ways too.

• A teacher who goes above and beyond because they truly care about their students
• A parent who sacrifices time and energy for their family
• A friend who shows up, listens, and stays present when it matters most

These may not make the news… but they reveal something powerful: Real love always moves. Real love always acts. And that’s exactly what we see in Isaiah 49. The people feel forgotten: “The Lord has forsaken me.” But God responds not just with words—but with action.

He speaks of making roads through deserts, freeing those in darkness, feeding, guiding, and leading His people home. God is not distant. God is not passive. God is at work—moving toward His people. And then comes that powerful line: “Can a mother forget her infant…? Even if she could, I will never forget you.” God’s love is not just strong—it is relentless.

A love that does not stay at a distance. A love that steps in. A love that does whatever it takes to reach us. And that’s where Lent comes in. Because sometimes we think Lent is about what we need to do: pray more, fast more, give more

But Isaiah reminds us: Before we do anything… God is already doing everything to reach us. Just like those workers clearing roads after the storm… just like those who ran into danger to save others… God is already clearing a path. Already making a way. Already coming toward us. And in Jesus, we see how far that love goes. Not just into a storm. Not just into danger. But all the way to the Cross.

So maybe this Lent, the invitation is simple: Notice the ways God is already working to reach you. Because even when we feel forgotten… God is already on the move—coming closer, making a way, and leading us home.