Newton Basumatari csc –
Readings: Is 49: 8 -15; Jn 5: 17- 30
We are in the fourth week of Lent and the readings remind us of the compassionate nature of God. Prophet Isaiah beautifully describes the comforting action of God to his people. God answered their calls and provided them with the necessary things for their survival.
God will never forget his people, just as a woman does not forget her nursing child. He has comforted them and will show compassion to those who are afflicted. Compassion is the gentle force that binds humanity, transcends boundaries, and nurtures souls. It is the cornerstone of love, and during this Lenten season, we are called to be the comforters for the people who are abused, victims of violence, and exploited, and our friends and family members who hold grudges against each other.
In the gospel reading, we hear about Jesus’ equality and relationship with God the Father. He reveals himself as the Son who gives life, through whom we all can reach the Father. He showed mercy and compassion to people during his ministry just like the Father who had comforted his people.
Today, you and I are called to demonstrate acts of kindness, engage in charitable giving, and practice attentive listening and understanding. By practicing these principles during Lent, we can embody the spirit of compassion and mercy towards our brothers and sisters in our community and beyond.