4TH SUNDAY OF LENT, YEAR C

 

Theme: God has reconciled himself to us through Christ

 

1^st Reading: Joshua, chapter 5: 9a, 10-12

The celebration of the Passover was a feast of thanksgiving. That manna ceased to fall meant that God’s people had to fend for themselves. Our Passover feast is the Eucharistic celebration, which is meant to strengthen us for our spiritual journey.

 

2^nd Reading: 2^nd letter of Paul to the Corinthians, chapter 5: 17-21

St Paul explains how God unconditionally reconciled us to himself. He commands us to spread the good news of reconciliation throughout the world.

 

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

The Parable of the Prodigal Son, which could also be called the Parable of the Merciful Father, has lessons for all of us. Whether we squandered the opportunities God gave us, or served him in anticipation of rewards, we all need to return to him, and beg for pardon.

3RD SUNDAY OF LENT, YEAR C

Theme: The need for ongoing reform

 

1^st Reading: Exodus, chapter 3:1-8a, 13-15

Moses encountered God in the Burning Bush at a time when he probably did not imagine that God could be so near. The unchanging God is as near to us this day, as he always has been to his people.

 

2^nd Reading: 1^st letter of Paul to the Corinthians, chapter 10: 1-6, 10-12

St Paul is reminding us that the events in the bible are neither hearsay nor are they meant for fun. God’s word is meant to inform and to teach us, so that we may avoid the pitfalls of our ancestors.

 

Gospel Reading: Luke, chapter 13: 1-9

Jesus explains that misfortunes could befall anyone at any time. It is important to ensure that in case of eventualities, we would have died as repentant souls, or as trees that were fruitful when they had the chance to do so.

 

2ND SUNDAY OF LENT, YEAR C

 

Theme: In prayer, lift up your hearts to God

 

1^st Reading: Genesis, chapter 15: 5-12, 17-18

Abraham was in constant touch with God, through prayer. The lesson for us is to follow Abraham’s example of faith, even as we communicate with our God, so that we may experience his enduring presence.

 

2^nd Reading: Letter of Paul to the Philippians, chapter 3: 17 to chapter 4: 1

St Paul challenges us to follow his example of Christian discipleship. We should put a premium on things concerning our heavenly home, rather than be bogged down with matters of the flesh.

 

Gospel Reading: Luke, chapter 9: 28b-36 

We share the experiences of Peter, James and John in the Transfiguration event. God clearly identifies Jesus as his son and our Saviour. Children of God must listen to him.

1ST SUNDAY OF LENT, YEAR C

Theme: The profession of faith

 

1^st Reading: Deuteronomy, chapter 26: 4-10

The rituals of thanksgiving, as directed by Moses, contain a declaration of faith and absolute trust in God, our creator, the God who transformed the descendants of a wandering shepherd, into a mighty nation.

 

2^nd Reading: Letter of Paul to the Romans, chapter 10: 8-13

St Paul affirms that the profession of our faith, and, consequently, our road to salvation, lies in open confession that Christ is the risen Lord.

 

Gospel Reading: Luke, chapter 4: 1-13

Jesus shows that knowing and obeying God’s word is the most effective weapon against temptation. Like Jesus, we too can use the power of God’s word to defeat the evil one.