Today is Friday of the 5th Week of Lent. We are about to enter Holy Week, when all Christians, and Christian families, are called to remember vividly the events of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus.
We are called to immerse ourselves in reflection of the Passion of Christ, so that the events that transpired are present in our minds, almost as if we are participating in them. The text of John’s Gospel sets the stage.
Can you let yourself really imagine what Jesus experienced?
It is December, during the Feast of Chanukah, the Feast of the Dedication of the Temple.
Jesus is the Presence of God Himself who has come to His Temple.
He has been telling the people that He is the Good Shepherd, calling to his sheep, the one who will lay down His life for the Sheep.
He is the God of Love, Love Incarnate, showing with great signs of healing, and feeding multitudes – that He is indeed who He says He is: the awaited one, the Son of God, one with the Father.
He stands with arms wide open, with heart wide open, for all hear and follow.
He is hit by a wall of rejection from the political and religious leaders.
In their jealousy they fear and will not tolerate this threat to their power and privilege.
They mask and rationalize their machinations in false theological squabbles so that they can use all the media which they control for lies to manipulate the people.
Understand the complexity, the intrigue. They intend to kill Him. Now they try to stone Him. Jesus’ life is danger.
Yet in reality, it is Jesus who is control.
He withdraws to the wilderness until His chosen time for the ultimate and definitive confrontation between GOOD and EVIL: the CROSS!
How has Lent been for you? Are you now ready to walk with Jesus and Mary to the foot of that Cross?
The essence of Lent is very simple: hear the voice of the Good Shepherd.
COME CLOSE! Even if you have not given much attention to Lent this year it is not too late.
COME TO THE GOOD SHEPHERD, EVEN BETTER WITH YOUR FAMILY!
Right now, and in the days to come, take some moments to COME TO HIM, to be with Him, to PRAY.
Let Our Lady help you. Hold your Rosary in your hand, pray some Hail Mary's, simply talk with Jesus.
Let yourself come to Peace… NOW! IN THESE DAYS.
Holy Mother, help us now to be ready for Holy Week.
- Father Jim's inspirational homily was recorded live this morning during Mass at the Father Peyton Center. Please view the video on our Facebook page. (You don't need a Facebook account to view.)
-
To view Rosary prayer and Mass streaming live, please visit our Facebook page at 11:30 am EST, Monday – Friday. Please invite your loved ones to join us too! (You don't need a Facebook account to view.)
