Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Jun Javines SVD – Holy Name University
Wednesday 1st Week of Lent
What is the most tragic word in the English vocabulary? The answer depends on one’s state of life. For a businessman, it may be “bankruptcy.” For an athlete, “injury.” For families struggling to survive, “sickness” or “death.”
Yet Francis Kong, a Christian business writer, suggests that the most tragic word is “almost.”
- I almost closed the deal…
- I almost caught my flight…
- I almost finished my academic requirement…
- I almost saved my marriage…
- I almost developed a prayer life…
“Almost” means being so close, yet never arriving. It is the tragedy of missed opportunities.
This can be said of today’s Gospel. God sent signs through the prophets, but people closed their hearts. When Jesus Himself came, performing miracles and healings, many still refused to believe. As John 1:11 says: “He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.”
The tragedy of “almost” is seen in the rich young man (Mark 10:17–22). He almost became a disciple, but walked away sad because of his possessions. It is seen in King Agrippa, who told Paul: “You almost persuade me to be a Christian” (Acts 26:28). Almost — but not quite.
Lent is a time to confront the “almost” in our lives. How often do we almost forgive, almost pray, almost help, almost change — but stop short? The devil delights in “almost,” because it keeps us from fully surrendering to God.
Jesus calls us to move beyond hesitation into wholehearted discipleship. As Hebrews 3:15 reminds us: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.”
- Be sensitive to the promptings of God in daily life — in the people we meet, in the challenges of work, in the joys and sorrows of family.
- Recognize these as signs of God’s compassion, forgiveness, and love.
- Bring Kingdom values into our relationships and dealings: mercy, justice, generosity, and faith.
- Refuse to settle for “almost.” Choose to live fully for Christ.
The word “almost” is tragic because it means we were close to grace but missed it. Lent is our chance to turn “almost” into “yes.” Let us open our hearts to God’s presence, embrace His love, and make His Kingdom visible in our lives.
“Lord, save me from living an ‘almost’ faith. Teach me to follow You fully, to love You completely, and to serve You wholeheartedly.”
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