I AM WHO AM

     As we journey through Lent, the theme of "I AM WHO AM" resonates profoundly, particularly in light of this coming Sunday’s Mass readings. This phrase, revealed to Moses at the burning bush, encapsulates the essence of God’s eternal presence and unchanging nature, inviting us to reflect on our identity in relation to the Divine, and the transformative call to holiness.
    Exodus 3:1-8a, 13-15 recounts the moment when Moses encounters God on Mount Horeb. The burning bush, aflame yet not consumed, symbolizes the holiness of God and His desire to engage with humanity. When God reveals His name, “I AM WHO AM,” He establishes Himself as the ultimate source of existence and reality. This declaration serves as a profound reminder that God is not defined by human limitations or circumstances; rather, He is the ground of all being, ever-present and ever-faithful. As we reflect on this passage during Lent, we are called to recognize our own identity in light of God’s eternal nature. Who are we in relation to "I AM"? Lent is an opportunity to strip away the false identities we often cling to—titles, achievements, and societal roles—and to embrace our true identity as beloved children of God. This season invites us to confront the distractions and attachments that separate us from recognizing our worth in God’s eyes.
    1st Corinthians 10:1-6, 10-12 serves as a sobering reminder of the lessons learned from the Israelites in the wilderness. St. Paul emphasizes that their experiences, including their failures, serve as warnings for us. The call to vigilance—“those who think they stand must be careful not to fall”—echoes the need for humility in our spiritual lives. As we contemplate the identity of God as "I AM," we are reminded that our journey of faith is not solely an individual endeavor but a communal one. The Israelites’ struggles and shortcomings reflect our own temptations and failures. Lent encourages us to acknowledge our need for God’s grace and to seek reconciliation within our communities. It challenges us to examine how we can support one another in our shared journey toward holiness, reminding us that we are called to be the body of Christ, living out our faith in love and service.
    Luke 13:1-9 presents the parable of the barren fig tree, which underscores the urgency of repentance and the hope of renewal. Jesus’ message emphasizes that while God is patient and merciful, there is also a call to bear fruit in our lives. The gardener’s plea for more time to nurture the tree symbolizes God’s desire for us to flourish in our faith. As we reflect on the identity of God as "I AM," we are invited to consider what it means to be fruitful in our lives. Are we living in a way that reflects the love and grace of God? Are we open to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit? Lent is a time for introspection and renewal, a season to prune away what hinders our growth and to cultivate the virtues that lead to a fruitful life. The call to repentance is not merely a demand for change but an invitation to align ourselves more closely with the God who is always present and who desires our wholeness.
    The theme of "I AM WHO AM" invites us to embark on a profound journey of self-discovery and transformation during Lent. As we reflect on the readings, we are reminded of God’s eternal presence and faithfulness, our identity as His beloved children, and the communal nature of our faith. Lent challenges us to confront our shortcomings, to seek reconciliation, and to bear fruit in our lives that reflects God’s love. May we embrace this holy season with open hearts, ready to respond to God’s call, to deepen our relationship with Him, and to live out our identity as witnesses of His grace in the world.

 

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