Friday, March 13, 2009

Homily – March 13, 2009 – Second Week of Lent - Friday

Our readings for Mass on this Friday of Lent reflect in greater detail what we will be remembering a few weeks hence (on a Thursday and Friday) when we see Jesus betrayed and handed over to the police for thirty pieces of silver; and we see Jesus plotted against, tortured and killed. These are seen in the first reading from Genesis which tells of the sale of Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver; and in the gospel passage where the landowner's son, in the parable, is taken out of the vineyard, tortured and killed!

In both cases, however, the one rejected became a very influential person to a great many persons: Joseph later became a source of blessing for his own brothers and their families when they were starving and in need of assistance; Jesus became a source of blessing, mercy and indeed eternal salvation to those who tortured and killed him: he became the stone rejected by the builders which became the cornerstone!

Let us today remember the marvels the Lord has done: how he insisted that life and light and love be given even to those who rejected, betrayed, tortured and killed him! Let us resolve this day of Lent to be less offensive to Jesus (and to other people, in whom he is found), and more grateful for his amazing mercy, forgiveness and providential care!

Today, if you hear the voice of the Lord, harden not your hearts!

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