Gospel for March 10 2024 – John 3: 14-21
Gospel Reflections for March 10 2024
Why did this happen!
When events don’t go well and you’re deeply disappointed, you might cry out, “Why did this happen! Whose fault is this!?”
The First Reading recalls the sad story about six hundred years before Christ when the Israelite people were conquered and sent as slaves to the far-off Kingdom of Babylon, in what is now modern Iraq.
During that exile they thought deeply about why this defeat happened. They asked, If we are the Chosen People …why are we now slaves? Why did this happen? Has God abandoned us? They gradually realized that their own desire for power threatened more powerful nearby nations like Babylon and so the Israelites brought on their own defeat. Their fate was the result of their own arrogance and pride. Lesson learned!
They soon repented and changed because they opened their eyes to see themselves as they actually were. That took courage, honesty, and humility, all great virtues to develop during Lent.
Years later, a new King in Persia conquered Babylon and granted the Israelites their freedom. They could go home! That was a happy day for homesick people to finally return home.
The Gospel affirms that God so loved the world that He gave His only Son for our salvation. Despite our sinfulness, God offers His love. God loves you because that is simply what He does. His love is not based on your goodness, but only on His unconditional love.
That love gives you the courage to see yourself clearly, honestly, and humbly as you actually are. We rarely feel that depth of love from other people, but we certainly have it from Our Lord. Only that unconditional love of Our Lord encourages your honest review of yourself.
You might just find out that some of your problems are your own fault. That honest self-review did wonders for the Israelites, and can for you as well.
You can begin the slow process of changing behaviors that might be causing you harm, and finally return home to the place God wants you to be.
These final weeks of Lent are your time to reflect about your path.
Decide to attend a University Series session, listen to Bishop Barron reflections online, say the rosary, read scripture, or check all the great resources at stbrunochurch.org …and spiritually return home to where God is ready to welcome you.
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
That first Reading from Chronicles is very thought provoking and dramatic as many readings can get. Significant in some ways to reflect what is happening now in parts of our World. The readings during Lent at daily Mass are fascinating. The second reading from Paul to the Ephesians is interesting as well
The Psalm. 132. “Let My Tongue be silenced, if I ever forget you”. Is sobering and solemn.
Lent is a great time for Fasting. Praying and Alms Giving. Taking time to think of how with Self introspection We can Improve our Spiritual Capacity in assisting others and ourselves.
Thanks for these reminders of what our Catholic Faith offers to improve our lives and enable us to acquire Eternal Salvation.
Always great insights, Tom. Thank you!