|
Fifth Sunday in Lent - B - March 22, 2014
A Grain of Wheat
A grain of wheat falls to the ground to produce more wheat. One man dies so all can live. Jesus spoke on two levels about life. On the metaphorical level, Jesus spoke of the need to deny the self for the good of others. But, Jesus also spoke on the literal level. He would die and rise again, so he could share his eternal life with those who believe.
WEEKLY BLOG In this week's blog, we ask the question: what is the true test of character?
VIDEOCAST In this week's videocast, we hear the words of Jesus about the grain of wheat and look at the Paschal Mystery.
MP3 PODCAST In this week’s podcast, we rediscover that life isn’t fair. The inequities of life, however, can hone virtue in us. Frustration and failure can turn us into better people, and, ultimately, lead to a better life.
FIRST READING The prophet Jeremiah predicted a new covenant, one of God’s intimacy with his people. People would realize this covenant of closeness even in a time of desperation and near despair, for, out of his love for his people, he would forgive them.
PSALM Psalm 51 is the pinnacle of sorrow for a worshiping community. It makes sin and sorrow personal. But it also reaffirms faith in a forgiving God, one whose mercy is overflowing and endless.
SECOND READING In the letter to the Hebrews, the author alluded to Melchizedek, the figure of mythic proportions from the book of Genesis. Because, according to tradition, Melchizedek had no beginning or end, he was a model for the Messiah. The author of the letter saw Jesus as the heavenly High Priest Melchizedek pointed to.
GOSPEL In John 12, Gentiles wanted to see Jesus. The Lord marked this time as the moment of revelation and glory. This was the time for all (including non-Jews) to see the Son of Man lifted up on the cross.
CHILDREN’S READING The narrative for the first reading described how Jeremiah might have felt when he saw his beloved Jerusalem defeated and in flames. Even in the midst of destruction, the seeds of hope began to take root. In the story for the gospel, Jackie wanted a mini-bike for his birthday, but he would have to show he was responsible before he received it. How would prove this responsibility? He would demonstrate it by helping others, especially the poor. Helping others changed him. Like Jesus, Jackie said “No” to himself, so he could say “Yes” to others.
CATECHISM LINK In this week’s Catechism Link, we discuss the Resurrection of Jesus.
FAMILY ACTIVITY Jesus declared his intention to sacrifice himself for the good of others. We, too, are called sacrifice for others. Impress that fact on your family members with a “Sacrifice Poster.”
|
