5th Sunday of Lent

Readings for  5th Sunday of Lent:

Reading 1    Ezekiel 37:12-14

Psalm           Psalm 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8

Reading 2    Romans 8:8-11

Gospel         John 11:1-45

REFLECTIONS:… from Father Daniel                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

The three readings today are centered on the life that God gives to all people. The first reading introduces us to the theme through the prophecy of Ezekiel that gave Israel hope of  resurrection. The Gospel presents the new message brought by Jesus. It is no longer a matter of resurrection on the last day, but the gift of new life that prevents a person from dying. In the second reading Paul speaks of the Spirit, the agent of Christ’s resurrection and of ours too.

Jesus is faced with the painful reality of death in today’s Gospel. Jesus weeps over the death of his dear friend Lazarus. Jesus claimed he was the resurrection and the life and he could prove it by raising Lazarus.

Studies on those who have undergone a near-death experience show they have these characteristics:They encouraged others to fear death less and appreciate simple things more; they cared more about others; most became more spiritual and came to view excessive pursuits of fame, fortune, or power as unfulfilling. We all experience many losses in life, little deaths, things that we have to grieve for. Yet, in the midst of all, we have to trust somehow that even with these sufferings, God can bring life out of death.  Because the Spirit is given to restore life where there was apparent death and sin. Just as Jesus asked Martha: “Do you believe this? Do you believe that everyone who lives and believes in me will never die?” What a comfort this is when we lose a loved one whom we know has lived and died in God’s grace. St. Paul said, “ We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” (Rm 8:28).This is the hope that gives new life to all of us. A father advised his son, “Child, never rush God. His timing is slow, enough to grow you and fast enough to save you.”