Search
-
April 2, 2022Reflection for 5th Sunday of Lent
Isaiah 43:16-21: This dramatic passage recalls, proclaims and celebrates the saving and liberating power of God; such as in the parting of the Red Sea and the destruction of Pharaoh's army when the waters flowed back into place. Then, the author abruptly tells us to forget the past. We’re told that God is working an even greater miracle in the present… namely, the offer of a new “liberation” and “freedom from slavery” that comes from living in obedience to the Covenant with God. The author extols how living faithfully and in harmony with God’s Will yields hope for transcending earthly concerns. Potential disciples are encouraged to have confidence that, as in the past, God will provide protection and sustenance of basic needs of those who live in conformity to God’s Will. Accomplishing conformity to the Will of God brings one in harmony with both God and with the natural world; which reflects God’s own order and peace.
Psalm 126: “The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.” This psalm of praise and thanksgiving further recalls the miracles of the Exodus and draws an image of the rejoicing of the newly liberated people of God. The second stanza offers poignant gratitude for God’s benevolent assistance and notes how even other nations recognize and appreciate God’s provision for the captive people of Israel. The third stanza features a petition for God to restore the fortunes of the people; that those who “sow in tears” shall “reap rejoicing.” In other words, the author expresses confidence that those who “sow in tears,” (act in faith, living the Covenant), will “reap in joy,” or surely receive rewards for their faithful living. There’s a strong message here of how faithful adherence to the Covenant has positive natural consequences of closeness to God and enjoyment of consequent rewards and “fruits” of holiness.
Phil 3:8-14: Today, St. Paul reflects that in order to follow Christ and fully “possess” the serenity that one experiences with discipleship, one must be prepared to “give up, all” in order to serve God and His Kingdom, whole-heartedly. Paul confesses that he considers as “nothing,” all that he has given up, in order to gain Christ and the righteousness that comes through complete abandonment of oneself and one’s possessions to the service of Divine Providence. As Lent progresses, we’re encouraged to reflect upon the righteousness that comes from the acknowledgment of our complete dependence upon God for forgiveness, redemption, mercy and consequent participation in Jesus’ Resurrection. Once again, we’re urged to focus on our faith and what lies ahead (eternal salvation), rather than focusing on “what lies behind.” This focus on present and future helps to keep one’s focus on service, rather than on past suffering or future concerns.
John 8:1-11: Today’s Gospel shows the scribes and Pharisee’s attempts to test and trap Jesus, by coercing Him to join them in publicly condemning, humiliating and stoning a woman caught in adultery. The scribes and Pharisees disingenuously ask Jesus if they should stone her; “as Moses commanded.” Jesus sees through their insincere self-righteousness and manipulation. He recognizes that their goal is not to achieve justice or righteousness, but only to use the woman’s sad plight to harm Jesus’ reputation. Then, we’re shown Jesus’ Divine Wisdom. Jesus invites “the one among you without sin” to cast the first stone. As a result, all are convicted; via a crisis of conscience in recognition of their own sinfulness; to forego judgment. Let’s similarly acknowledge our own guilt and show mercy!
Ponderously,
Deacon Matt
