Third Sunday of Lent
In today’s first reading, we are called to identify with the Chosen People, especially their experience of the Exodus. The Bible says that God led His people by day with a cloud and by night with a pillar of fire, feeding the people on their journey through the desert with Manna and bringing them to the Promised Land. This wonderful Old Testament story is a foreshadowing of the mystery of Christ.
Jesus is the New Moses sent by the Father to free us from our slavery to sin and death. Jesus leads us through the new Red Sea when we are baptized. God leads us by the new cloud and pillar of fire. That is a reference to the Holy Spirit, whom we received especially in confirmation.
As we make our journey through life, we are not only guided by the Holy Spirit. We are also nourished by the new Manna, the Eucharist that is the Bread of Life, the Body and Blood of Christ. Jesus gives us himself, so that we would flourish in the New Promised Land, the Kingdom of God.
Notice, however, that Jesus warned us in the Gospel, not to think that once we get into the Church, we can just let things happen. No, we are like a tree planted in a garden. But trees don’t automatically produce good fruit. They require cultivation. Lent is our time of conversion, of renewal, or another chance to cultivate the right virtues in our lives, so that we bear good fruit.
The Holy Spirit comes with gifts of wisdom and understanding, of courage and reverence. If we want to flourish in our Promised Land, we must use those gifts well.
Reflection: What virtues do I need to strengthen in my life?
Reflection by Archbishop Jerome Hanus, OSB
Posted in Articles for Lent, Daily Reflections, Lenten Resources