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This week, I had the privilege of inviting our middle school students participating in the Lenten lunch tables to reflect together on scripture from the Gospel of Matthew:

"But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." — Matthew 6:3-4

As a group, these students sat together, sharing a meal and reflecting on the meaning of this scripture, which calls us to act in humble, quiet ways without seeking recognition. Afterward, they left me with some notes on their conversations—insights that I believe are not only meaningful for them but can also guide us all during this Lenten season.

Here are their words, in their own words:

• Invite people you don’t know to be part of your group.
• When someone is talking behind someone’s back, tell them to stop.
• Don’t gossip. Instead, share compliments and find the good in other people.
• Listen to others.
• Be the person whose kindness and humility others can always count on.
• Pray for your classmates.
• Realize that doing good is not for people to see and it’s not for attention, but it’s for other people and for us to grow closer to God.
• Being kind for a reward or attention—Is it truly being kind?

These reflections are a reminder that Lent is not just about giving something up, but about transforming how we live out our faith in the world. It's about being intentional in our actions, focusing not on recognition but on what we can do to lift up others and grow closer to God.

I encourage all of us to take these words to heart this Lent. Let’s remember that our actions, no matter how small, can make a big difference. Let’s strive to build a school community that reflects love, kindness, and respect for one another, always seeking to grow in faith. And, listen closely to our children. They have great ideas if we give them the opportunity to share them.