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The comforting rhythm of repetition: A gift from God

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Daniel Esparza - published on 06/06/24
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When you find yourself reading the same bedtime story to your child for the hundredth time, remember that repetition is not a sign of stagnation.

Have you ever noticed how children thrive on repetition? The same bedtime stories told over and over again soon become comforting classics, and the predictability of a daily routine provides a sense of security. This love of the familiar isn’t just a childhood quirk; it’s a principle woven into the very fabric of what we are.

Just as children find comfort in hearing the same stories over and over again, we too find comfort in the recurring themes and practices of our faith. Each year we celebrate the same feasts, follow the same liturgical calendar, and delve into the same timeless biblical and hagiographical stories. While some may find this repetition monotonous, its purpose is vital.

"Taking root" through repetition

As the book of Proverbs reminds us, “There is nothing new under the sun” (Proverbs 1:9).  The core truths of our faith are ancient – and constant. Repetition allows these truths to take root in our hearts, deepening our understanding and strengthening our moral core.

Consider the power of prayer. The repetition of the Rosary or the familiar rhythm of daily prayers creates a space for contemplation and daily conversation with God. Just as a sculptor patiently refines a piece with each stroke, repetition in prayer chisels away the distractions of daily life, allowing us to focus on our relationship with the Divine.

The idea of repetition is also reflected in the cyclical nature of the liturgical year. As the seasons change, so do the feasts and celebrations of our faith. Advent reminds us of Christ’s coming, Christmas celebrates his birth, Lent prepares us for the cross, and Easter explodes with the joy of the resurrection. This annual cycle mirrors the rhythm of life itself with times of joy, sorrow, reflection and renewal.

Repetition and stability

The comfort of repetition extends beyond the liturgy. Family traditions, acts of service, and even the simple act of gathering for weekly Mass become anchors in our lives. These familiar routines provide a sense of stability in a world that can often feel chaotic.

Even God, in his infinite wisdom, embraces repetition. The psalmist proclaims, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters” (Psalm 23:1-2). Interestingly, when we read this psalm, we do not always consider the fact that God is always doing this. His providence is constant, ever-present, “repetitive.” Like the green pastures and still waters, God’s care is a constant refrain in Scripture, offering a comforting assurance for us all.

When find yourself reading the same bedtime story to your child for the hundredth time, remember the power of repetition. It’s not a sign of stagnation, but a testament to the enduring truths that shape our human world. Embrace repetition, and allow its rhythm to deepen your life.

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