Thursday of the Fourth Week of Lent

Today's Mass Readings

The exchange between God and Moses comes after one of the great low points in Israel’s history. Moses was delayed in coming down the mountain, and the people lost faith and turned their backs on the Lord (who had very recently rescued them in a rather dramatic way from slavery in Egypt), and they then decided to worship an idol, a false god, a molten calf. The people hit rock bottom.

So, it’s understandable that God doesn’t want to claim the people—for God says to Moses that they are “your people.” Moses, at this point, plays the all-important role as mediator. As a friend of God, Moses enjoyed a special relationship with God, and he intercedes on behalf of the people. I think of the many people in my life whom I know prayed for me when I was not at my best. They are those faithful stewards, drawing close to God and interceding, even while they go unnoticed by the world. Moses’ intercession works, and God relents of his punishment that he had threatened to inflict upon the people.

I have so many people come to me who are concerned about a family member, a son or granddaughter or sibling, who has fallen away from the Church. They brood, worry, and fret, but all of that is useless unless they pray. Be an intercessor—pray and fast for the conversion of souls, and make your concern for others known, not by judging them or gossiping, but by praying for them. Recall what St. James writes about intercessory prayer: “The fervent prayer of a righteous person is very powerful” (5:16).

Reflection by Fr. Paul Sheller, OSB