5TH SUNDAY OF LENT

FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT

(Ezekiel 37:12-14; Psalm 130(129); Romans 8:8-11; John 11:1-45)

Theme: WHAT HE OFFERS TO THE SPIRITUALLY DEAD AND UPLIFTED

Last Sunday, we reminded ourselves that God's transformative power extends to everyone made in His image, for He aims to shape our lives and actions, especially those considered lost, unspiritual, or mentally challenged, into reflections of His glorious splendour.

In other words, He offers healing when we are physically and spiritually unwell, strength when we are tired of life, second chances when we admit our failings, and eternal life if our trials, sufferings, and challenges lead us through the door of death.

This Sunday’s readings reaffirm the Lord’s unwavering commitment and divine purpose. From Ezekiel 37:12ff and John 11:1-45, He emphasizes His promise to raise from their graves anyone—whether physically or spiritually dead—by filling them with His Spirit and life. Thus, He offers revival, second chances, or eternal life to those who trust in Him.

Since those in graves of suffering, failure, and setbacks cannot help themselves, it is our duty to assist all created in God’s image. However, St Paul reminds us in the second reading that we will not be effective in God’s ministry if we live selfishly and work without His grace.

And so, let us ask in prayer for the power of execution and inspiration to bring others back to Him. In Galatians 6:1ff, we are encouraged to compassionately help anyone, whether spiritually alive or dead, to reconcile with the Lord. In Romans 15:18, we are called to use our gifts to teach others to obey the Lord through both words and deeds.

Therefore, our mission is to inspire and support others in living more like the Lord, helping them to restore their self-esteem, confidence in their abilities, hope for the future, and will to live. Let us not forget that our mission is universal; therefore, we must reach out to all, whether they are physically, spiritually, or mentally challenged, so they can experience God's tenderness and be integrated into a family of faith where they feel accepted, understood, supported, and respected; where they can love and be loved; and where they can rediscover God’s presence and the life that offers hope, overcomes pain, and endures forever.