Tuesday of the Fifth Week
ReflectionThe end of our Lenten journey is in sight but we, like the ancient children of Israel who were grumbling on the Red Sea road, may lack the spiritual stamina to reach the “promised land” of Easter, especially when we realize that the commemoration of the Lord’s passion and death must precede celebration of the Lord’s resurrection at Easter. Unlike the bronze serpent mounted on a pole by Moses at the Lord’s instruction to inspire the children of Israel to persevere, we, through God’s grace, have the image of our Lord as He Himself tells us in the Gospel: “…when you lift up the Son of Man, then you will realize that I AM, and that I do nothing on my own but I say only what the Father taught me…” (John 8: 28). Christ’s influence on one who becomes attuned to Him can be noticed in the figure of the Roman centurion Longinus, who, at the foot of the cross of Christ, is said to have testified: “This man certainly was the Son of God!” Today is his feast day. Are we listening to the words Our Lord conveys to each of us, today, on our Lenten journey? Success and redemption depend on our willingness to do so!
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are our Savior and Your words are the key to our achieving everlasting life. May we always be receptive to the inspiration You convey to each of us. Speak, Lord, we Your servants are truly listening—awake, aware, and attentive to Your call!
James P. Conley, Department of Classics
First Reading: Numbers 21:4-9
Psalm 102:2-3, 16-21
Gospel: John 8:21-30
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