St. Mary's Catholic Church of Tomahawk, WI

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

We are in the fifth week of Lent, Year A. The readings invite us to reflect on a new life in God’s spirit. The first reading is an interpretation of prophet Ezekiel’s vision about the dry bones. Although the people view themselves as cut off from life (i.e. dead, buried and abandoned), the Lord commands Ezekiel to prophesy over the dry bones thus disinterring and reassembling them. These lifeless bones were reanimated by breathing life into them, restoring hope. What is our hope and preparation for the new life in the Lord?

The second reading tells us that every person, no matter his or her origin, needs justification because of our sins. Human powerlessness under the reign of sin and death through acquaintance with the law contrasts with freedom of life in the Spirit through justification achieved by Jesus Christ. Hence, we have to distinguish between living according to flesh and according to spirit. The centrality of belief is that all who have Christ’s spirit will be justified to attain eternal life. How do we choose to live, in flesh or in spirit?

The gospel passage is about the raising of Lazarus to life. Our Lord challenges and invites us to a trusting faith in Him that goes beyond the messianic titles and pharisaic beliefs. The disciples fail to understand that Lazarus’ sickness will not end in death, but rather will lead to God’s glory and Jesus’ glorification. Even Martha and Mary identify Him as a divinely inspired rabbi with power from God for healing. In the end, prior to the great miracle, none of those people Jesus has encountered have truly embraced His identity. Do we believe in the glory and identity of our Lord who is the Resurrection and the Life?

Fr. Aloysius Royan Anthony