Tuesday of the 4th week of Lent
Saint Patrick, Bishop, Missionary
Gospel: John 5:1-3,5-16In today’s Gospel, Jesus approaches a man who had been ill for many years and asks a direct and disarming question: “Do you want to be well again?” The question reveals that healing begins with an honest desire for change. The man begins to explain his situation and his limitations, but Jesus invites him beyond excuses toward trust and action. During Lent, the same question is addressed to us. Do we truly want to be healed, from our seasoned sins, our habitual wrongdoings, and the patterns that keep us spiritually paralyzed? The Lord’s grace is ready to restore us, but we must first listen and respond with sincerity. Saint Patrick, whose life was transformed by God’s grace and who became a missionary of that mercy, reminds us that when we allow Christ to heal us, our lives themselves become witnesses of God’s transforming power. Lent invites us to listen to Jesus’ question and to allow His healing word to lift us up. Let’s reflect: Lent is honestly answering Jesus’ question, desiring to be healed, and allowing Him to free us from the sins and excuses that keep us spiritually paralyzed.
Don Giorgio