5th Sunday of Lent (a)
This Week’s Liturgy Calendar.
Sunday 13th April: Fifth Sunday of the Lent (a)
In today’s Gospel, we hear of the scene with which many of us are familiar, namely, people weeping over the death of a loved one. Jesus is at the centre of the scene. He is the one who gives hope to those who are surrounded by the shadows of death.
In the first reading, the exile of the people to Babylon is described in terms of death and their return home is described in terms of Resurrection and spiritual renewal.
The second reading, from the Letter to the Romans, we are reminded that it was the Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead. This same Spirit now lives in us.
In the Gospel, by raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus shows that he is Lord both of life and of death.
Monday 14th April: Monday of fifth week of Lent.
We have the famous story from the Book of Daniel, of how the wickedness of the two old men was exposed. Through simple wisdom, Daniel was able to save Susanna who had refused to compromise her virtue.
In the Gospel, Jesus is confronted with the woman who had committed adultery. Although he condemns the sin, he ensures that the sinner is not judged but pardoned.
Tuesday 15th April: Tuesday of fifth week of Lent.
We are again reminded of what the crucifixion will do for us. Those who looked on the bronze serpent on its standard in the Old Testament story were saved from poison. Therefore, those who look on Jesus, who will be lifted up, will be saved. That is why we should use the sign of the cross with respect and reflection.
Wednesday 16th April: Wednesday of fifth week of Lent.
Certain Jews refused to worship the statue made by Nebuchadnezzar and were thrown into the fiery furnace. They survived and demonstrated the great power of the God they believed in.
Jesus was very maddening for the Pharisees even although he is only with them a very short time. It is through him, however, that the fountains of living water what would bring redemption and new life would flow.
Thursday 17th April: Thursday of fifth week of Lent.
Our communion with God, our salvation, depends on faith. Like Abraham, we have to trust the word of God. His faith changed not only his own life but also the lives of his people.
Now God speaks to us in his Word – Jesus Christ. If we believe in him, we become part of the new people of the new covenant through Baptism, with the promise of eternal life given to us.
Friday18th April: Friday of fifth week of Lent.
The people want to bring the prophet down. He takes his strength from knowing the Lord God is on his side.
Jesus is being threatened by stone throwing Jews. He reminds them he is not blaspheming but only doing the work of his Father. This makes the Jews even angrier.
Saturday 19th April: Saturday of fifth week of Lent.
At a time of great suffering as a result of the exile, Ezekiel preaches the great vision of hope for the people. Israel will be gathered together again as one nation, in one land, ruled by one shepherd.
After the resurrection of Lazarus, the high priests and leaders decide they can no longer cope with Jesus and the decision is taken that he must die.
O Christ Jesus, when all is darkness
And we feel our weakness and helplessness
Give us Your presence,
Your love and Your strength.
Help us to have perfect trust
In Your protecting love
And strengthening power
So that nothing may frighten or worry us
For, living close to You, we shall see Your hand,
Your purpose, Your will through all things.
Amen.
(St. Ignatius)