This Fourth Sunday of Lent is also known as Laetare (Rejoice) Sunday. The readings (for Cycle C) are appropriate for rejoicing. Today we hear the familiar story of the Prodigal Son (and the forgiving Father). We know from the story that as his father forgave him, so too, we are forgiven by our Father in heaven. It is never too late for repentance, to be received back by our loving Father and live in his presence forever.
The First Reading reflects that change will happen; this is one of the concerns of the Lenten Season; our personal change of heart. The second reading reflects reconciliation and change, the spirit of Lent. St. Paul tells us today that “Whoever is in Christ is a new creation; the old things have passed away; behold new things have come.” We are reconciled to God; forgiven in mercy.
We are reminded that we must respond, and that we need to ask for forgiveness as did the prodigal. There are so many ways in which to foster the spirit of Lent within us; and as we know, it is never too late to begin. There are many prayer and praise opportunities at St. Aidan; just look at the calendar! There are special liturgies, special devotions and Christian Service work in which to participate. Also, please don’t forget to mark your calendars for Holy Week and all the liturgies of the Paschal Triduum: Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord; The Mass of the Lord’s Supper and Adoration (Thursday); The Stations of the Cross and the Good Friday Liturgy, The Great Vigil of Easter (Saturday), and Easter Sunday of The Resurrection of the Lord.
We are offered by our Church, and our Catholic faith, for ways to become close to God, to come home to the Father, as did the prodigal in his story. And as ever, in God’s infinite mercy and love, we are always welcomed back home. All we have to do really, is show up.
Keep singing!
Elizabeth Dyc
The First Reading reflects that change will happen; this is one of the concerns of the Lenten Season; our personal change of heart. The second reading reflects reconciliation and change, the spirit of Lent. St. Paul tells us today that “Whoever is in Christ is a new creation; the old things have passed away; behold new things have come.” We are reconciled to God; forgiven in mercy.
We are reminded that we must respond, and that we need to ask for forgiveness as did the prodigal. There are so many ways in which to foster the spirit of Lent within us; and as we know, it is never too late to begin. There are many prayer and praise opportunities at St. Aidan; just look at the calendar! There are special liturgies, special devotions and Christian Service work in which to participate. Also, please don’t forget to mark your calendars for Holy Week and all the liturgies of the Paschal Triduum: Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord; The Mass of the Lord’s Supper and Adoration (Thursday); The Stations of the Cross and the Good Friday Liturgy, The Great Vigil of Easter (Saturday), and Easter Sunday of The Resurrection of the Lord.
We are offered by our Church, and our Catholic faith, for ways to become close to God, to come home to the Father, as did the prodigal in his story. And as ever, in God’s infinite mercy and love, we are always welcomed back home. All we have to do really, is show up.
Keep singing!
Elizabeth Dyc
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