FOCUS ON THIS WEEK'S READINGS from the PASTOR
Lenten Practices: Over the last three weeks we have discussed the Lenten practices of fasting, almsgiving and prayer. All of these, each in it’s own way, open us up to receive the gift that God intends for us. This gift may be in the form of a ministry, it may be a step in understanding or healing. It is for ourselves an answer to our need, and it is for others we may serve. This week I suggest offering up your petitions. Ask God. Tell him what you need. Most of all, be open. Open yourself to receive. It may not be what you expect. It will be a gift.
Readings for next week: Ezekiel 37:12-14; Romans 8:8-11; John 11:1-45
Reflection: According to Genesis, we first became living beings when we received the breath of life from the mouth of the living God. From the very beginning human life has been a sharing in the divine life. Death appeared when we first turned away. Life is restored with the gift of the Holy Spirit dwelling within. Martha’s witness to the death and resurrection of Lazarus provides a dramatic example. She declares, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would have never died”. Jesus is our life. As long as He is with us there can be no death. It is only when we wander away from Christ that death can take hold. Martha speaks again, “Even now, I am sure that God will give you anything you ask of Him”. Returned to the presence of God, life reawakens. There is no end to the love of God. There can be no end to the life He shares.
1. Describe a personal experience which confirms your belief in the Resurrection.
2. Consider life and death in light of the ways that you have wandered away from Christ.
Prayer: Father, help us to live in the life of your Son. Inspire us by His love and guide us by His example. Help us to embrace the world that you have given us, that we may transform its death and suffering into the life and joy of Easter
