Readings for March 26, 2023 — Fifth Sunday of Lent
Suggested Reflection Questions:
- In this first reading from the book of Ezekiel, God promises the people that he will raise them from their graves. He asks, in return, for the people to follow Him. Where in our lives do we feel like we are not fully following God? What is preventing us from giving our lives to God and keeping us stuck in our own graves? What can we do to help us not only live, but also thrive?
- The second reading from the book of Romans brings to mind a quote from Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, S.J., “We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience.” How do you reflect the Spirit of Christ in your daily lives? How is your Lenten challenge helping you to grow in the Spirit versus in the flesh?
- In the Gospel reading from John, we hear the story about Jesus raising Lazarus from the tomb. Jesus’ delay must have made Mary and Martha question, “God, are you listening?” Although Lazarus was dead by the time Jesus did get there, it allowed Him to perform an even greater miracle than healing Lazarus of his illness — Jesus raised him from the dead! How often do we question if God is listening to our prayers? How can we be more patient to God’s timing and trust in His decisions? How has your prayer life been this Lent? Where is there room for improvement?
