Ask, Seek, and Knock
Thursday of the First Week of Lent
Matthew 7:7–12
In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks words that are full of hope and reassurance: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened.” These are not empty promises. They are an invitation to trust God with our deepest needs and desires.
Jesus knows our hearts. He understands our fears, our struggles, and the questions we carry. When he encourages us to ask, seek, and knock, he is not telling us to demand answers or force results. He is inviting us into a relationship of trust. Like a loving parent, God listens with care and responds with love—always giving what is truly good for us.
The Gospel today is especially meaningful during Lent. As we pray more intentionally, we may wonder if our prayers really matter. Jesus assures us that they do. Every honest prayer, even one spoken with doubt or weariness, opens us to God’s transforming grace. Prayer changes us. It helps shape our hearts to want what God wants.
Jesus also connects prayer with how we treat others. He ends with the Golden Rule: “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.” True spiritual transformation is never just personal. As we grow closer to God, we are called to become kinder, more patient, and more compassionate with those around us.
Practically, today may be a good day to name one thing you need to bring to God—without fear or hesitation. Ask honestly. Seek God’s guidance. Knock with persistence. Then, look for one simple way to live the Golden Rule today, perhaps through a kind word, a forgiving gesture, or a listening ear.
Lent reminds us that God is not distant or reluctant. God is near, attentive, and generous. When we ask, seek, and knock with trusting hearts, we open ourselves to real and lasting transformation.
You are invited to reflect today about what is God inviting you to ask for and entrust to God today? How can you live the Golden Rule more intentionally in your relationships?
Loving God,
give me the courage to come to you
with an open and trusting heart.
Help me to seek your will,
to knock with faith, and to welcome
the transformation you offer.
May you lead me to love others
as you love me.
Amen.