First Reading: Isaiah, 43:16-21; Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 126; Second Reading: Philippians 3:4b–14; Gospel:  John 12:1–8

The fifth Sunday of Lent Reflection is by, Rev. Fr. Tersoo Gwaza, SJ., Parish Priest, Holy Family Parish, Caldwell, Monrovia, Liberia.

My dear friends, today the fifth Sunday of Lent Year C,

Lent is a time of spiritual renewal for us Catholics in particular, and Christians in general. In other words, Lent is a time of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. May we remember to share your blessings with the poor and the less privileged in the church community and society at large.

In today’s first reading from the Prophet (Isaiah 43:16-21), we hear the Lord’s promise to make a way in the wilderness and to create rivers in the desert. This powerful imagery reminds us that God is always doing something new, always bringing life and hope to even the most desolate and barren places. As we journey through our own wilderness experiences, may we trust in the Lord’s promise to guide us, to provide for us, and to bring us to a place of abundance and joy. May we, like the Israelites, look back on our own history and see the many ways in which God has been faithful to us, and may we look forward with hope and expectation, knowing that He is always doing something new in our lives and families.

Today’s second reading from (Philippians 3:8-14), St. Paul shares his own spiritual journey, revealing that he has come to consider everything else as loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus. St. Paul’s words challenge us to examine our own priorities and values, and to ask ourselves what we are striving for in life. As we seek to follow Christ, may we, like St. Paul, be willing to let go of everything that holds us back, and may we press on towards the goal of knowing Christ and being conformed to His image. May our own relationship with Christ be the guiding force in our lives, shaping our choices, our values, and our very identity. 

In today’s Gospel (John 8:1-11), we witness the dramatic encounter between Jesus and the woman caught in adultery. As the Pharisees and scribes seek to condemn her, Jesus’ response is a masterclass in mercy and compassion. By writing in the dust, Jesus exposes the hypocrisy of her accusers, and with the words “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone,” He reminds us all of our own need for forgiveness and mercy.

My dear friends, as we reflect on this powerful scene, may we be reminded of the boundless love and compassion of Christ, and may we, like the woman, experience the freedom and redemption that comes from His merciful gaze. Amen.

I wish you all a grace-filled Lenten Season! Happy new month of April!

God’s choicest blessings upon you and your household. Amen.