Gospel Reading: John 11:1-45
As I contemplate the readings for the fifth Sunday in Lent, I am drawn to Paul’s letter to the Romans, which addresses his listeners with the simple words, “You are in the Spirit.” So simple, yet so profound for each of us to take to heart and to contemplate. We breathe this Spirit of God and are invited to walk and live by the Spirit’s counsels and to relate to others as temples where God’s Spirit chooses to dwell. For we believe that as children of God, each person is created in God’s image and likeness, no matter the place of birth.
I continue to wonder about the degree of my awareness of this profound dwelling within my simple being. As well as within the being of those I encounter on a daily basis: family, friends, co-workers, strangers on the bus or in the grocery store, or those I encounter in the daily news?
The Spirit may nudge us to comfort one who is in pain or feels abandoned or lost. Sometimes we hear the invitation to offer kindness, a respectful listening heart, or just a hand to open the door for the other in need.
The Spirit is with us to guide and comfort us in our daily struggles to respond and walk in the fire of God’s Love. And so we pray with Pax Christi from Northern California: Holy Spirit, You call us, in our minds, in our world, and through each other. Speak to us. Speak through us. When we worship power, control, money, when we cannot forgive, or shove pain onto others, call us. Light the fire of Love. We will not be afraid. Love transcends all fear. You are with us always. Amen.
Sister Maria Kruszewski, CSFN
