Pritam Dangwar csc –
Readings: Ez 47:1-9, 12; Jn 5:1-16
Today’s first reading portrays the significance of water flowing from the temple. This flowing water symbolizes life-giving nourishment for the soul and spiritual growth. Along the riverbanks, abundant life flourishes, with trees bearing plentiful fruits and leaves used for healing. The depth of the water represents the journey of faith into the depths of our being and our relationship with God. The dead sea symbolizes spiritual death and withered faith in desolate areas of our hearts. However, experiencing God’s presence rejuvenates us, transforming us into evergreen trees bearing abundant fruit and flourishing in life.
In the Gospel reading we witness Jesus, healing of a man paralyzed for 38 years, who lay by the pool of Bethesda. Jesus, approach to the man demonstrates his unique authority to heal, cure, and grant life. The passage also highlights the man’s eagerness to be healed in the stirred waters believed to be stirred by an angel.
However, controversy arises as Jesus performs the healing on the Sabbath, raising questions about his authority. As we journey through the season of Lent, may we adopt a similar attitude of willingness to allow God’s transformative work in our lives, enabling us to be evergreen in his Spirit.