God, who is rich in mercy,
because of the great love he had for us,
even when we were dead in our transgressions,
brought us to life with Christ...
Ephesians 2:4-5
In recent days, signs of change abound. Clocks have “sprung ahead”. Days with light are lengthening. Even the light – itself – is brighter. And officially spring begins/began on Friday. Our Scripture readings also indicate change which continues today.
In the first reading, Chronicles portray nearly all Judeans as never heard or having discarded the Mosaic Law – despite the many prophets or messengers sent by God. It took the pagan king, Cyrus, to announce effectively that the
Let’s turn to the Gospel where we find Nicodemus encountering Jesus. As a Pharisee, Nicodemus served as a Jewish leader of a group open to hearing the “Good News”. He refers to Jesus as “teacher” or “Rabbi” - the reverse of what would be expected from a temple leader. Unlike the Judeans of the Chronicles’ story, Nicodemus was receptive to hearing something new, though not yet experienced God’s transformative love. However, the potential for change is decidedly present.
In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul immediately illustrates where his priorities are. He begins with “Brothers and sisters, God who is rich in Mercy …” Paul, formerly known as Saul, persecuted Christians for following Jesus….. now acknowledges who Jesus is for him – and eagerly invited the Ephesians to experience it for themselves.
So, where are you in your Lenten journey? From these readings, who are you most like? What kind of light or gift of God do you most need to begin or to further make changes in your life?
Perhaps, a contemporary illustration can draw this reflection to a close. Recently, a friend sent an email depicting God’s gigantic hands coupling the crippled airliner floating atop the
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