Christian faith, beliefs, and traditions handed down from the apostles through the generations have a rich heritage steeped in the love and teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we watch the world around us and the practices of people within our circles and communities, it becomes evident that, over time, the fervor for Christian beliefs is diminishing. St. Paul chided the early Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, “I am amazed that you are so quickly forsaking the one who called you by [the] grace [of Christ] for a different gospel.” —Galatians 1:6. Paul warns against the dilution of faith and turning to false prophecies, a reality that we can now observe as many follow tenets conflicting with the teachings of Jesus and make idols of individuals or human constructs.
On the Third Sunday of Lent, we intensify our resolve for spiritual renewal and a deeper relationship with God. The readings invite us to reflect on the themes of God’s nature and mercy, repentance, and His call for us to bear fruit. In the first reading from Exodus, Moses encounters God in the burning bush, and God reveals to him and us that He is unchanging. “I am who I am. …This is my name forever; this is my title for all generations.” —Exodus 3:14b-15. A profound declaration of God’s eternal being and authority. The encounter emphasizes God’s attentiveness to the suffering of His people, “I have witnessed the affliction of my people in Egypt and have heard their cry against their taskmasters, so I know well what they are suffering.” —Exodus 3:7. This moment marks the beginning of Moses’ answer to God’s calling of leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. In the second reading, Paul cautions the believers in Corinth about the dangers of becoming complacent. He reminds them of the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness, highlighting that, even with their extraordinary experiences, many turned away from their faith. He encourages us to remain alert and focus on our spiritual well-being to avoid encountering the same pitfalls. Finally, in the short Gospel reading for today, Jesus, twice, calls us to repent-ance, “But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!” —Luke 13:3 and Luke 13:5. Jesus also uses the parable of the fig tree as a poignant reminder of God’s patience and our need to bear fruit in our lives.
God desires more than just our recognition of Him; He seeks a true transformation of our hearts and lives. The call to repentance is not merely a demand for change; it is an invitation to enter into a deeper relationship with Him, who cares for us and is perpetually willing to forgive, heal, and provide for us.
The Lenten season is a time to engage in practices that foster spiritual growth through prayer, fasting, and acts of charity. These are not merely rituals but the way to a deeper conversion and a more profound relationship with God. Let us take this opportunity to examine our lives. Are there areas where we have become complacent? Are we bearing the fruit that God desires? Let us commit to this path of conversion, allowing God’s grace to transform us.
Go in Peace to Love and Serve the Lord.
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