Fourth Sunday of Lent

Reflection

Traditionally the Fourth Sunday of Lent is called Gaudete Sunday, from the Latin translation of the words of the Entrance Antiphon, "Rejoice, Jerusalem, and all who love her."  Today's readings offer ample reason for rejoicing: definitive deliverance from oppression; reconciliation of all peoples in Christ; and a warm, personal welcome, for every human being who wants it, into the Father's loving embrace.  The passage from Joshua reminds us of our rootedness in Israel, while Saint Paul in 2 Corinthians directs our consciousness outward, accentuating our role as ambassadors of the new covenant.  Our mission is to carry the Gospel of reconciliation into the whole world.  This year, in the Diocese of Burlington, we are celebrating a Year of Evangelization.  Like the man with two sons in the story that is often referred to as the Parable of the Prodigal Son, we want to be profligate in spreading the Good News of pardon, reconciliation, and peace: both to those who, like the younger son, may seem to have turned away from God and the Church, but who will respond more readily to a warm welcome home than they would to harsh judgmentalism; and to those who, like the elder brother, may be faithful in a formal way while being a little unclear on the concept of the Father's unconditional love for all.

Prayer

Loving God, we sometimes take Your gifts for granted and turn away from You.  In this Lenten season, please plant within us a confident desire to repair and renew our relationships with You, and a ready will to welcome everybody into Your loving embrace.

Fr. David Cray, S.S.E. ’68,

Superior General of the Society of Saint Edmundd

Scripture

First Reading: Joshua 5:9a, 10-12

Psalm 34:2-7

Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21

Gospel: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website