Sunday, March 29th, 2020
Faith Formation from Home
Fifth Week of Lent: Readings & Reflections
READING 1
Ezekiel 37:12-14
"Thus says the Lord GOD: O my people, I will open your graves and have you rise from them..."

The First Reading sets the tone for today's readings. Throughout each reading you will hear the repeated promise of the resurrection and of eternal life with God. Each reading reminds us that death is not the end, but the beginning of our life with Christ. Even as long ago as the prophet Ezekiel's time, God has been making us this promise!

Reflection: If you knew the hour you were going to die, would it change how you are living today?
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 130
"With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption,"

Today's psalm reminds us to turn back to God with repentant hearts. Especially as we contemplate death and the afterlife, this psalm reminds us that God is ready to give us His mercy if we only ask.

Reflection: How would you describe "mercy" to a young child? What does it feel like to receive mercy? What does it feel like to give mercy?

ACTIVITY: Consider praying "The Divine Mercy Chaplet" together as a family.
Reading 2
Romans 8:8-11
" But if Christ is in you,
although the body is dead because of sin,
the spirit is alive because of righteousness.

A continuation of a similar message that Paul has presented in other letters, we are reminded that only a life in Christ will give us life! Even if we die, the spirit of God forever dwells within us.
Reflection: Who is someone that you know that totally embodies the "spirit of Christ"?
How does that total faith give them a sense of strength and renewed energy?
Gospel
John 11:1-45

"And Jesus wept. And so the Jews said, 'See how he loved him.'."


Today's Gospel is a rare moment in which we see Jesus crying...weeping over the death of his beloved friend Lazarus. By the time Mary and Martha send word to Jesus of Lazarus' fever, it is too late. Lazarus has been dead 4 days before Jesus reaches his tomb.

Interestingly, in this story, it is Martha who rushes to greet Jesus and Mary who sits at home. If you recall the classic "Mary and Martha Story" (Luke 10:38-42) you will notice the difference in the sister's reactions compared to their earlier visit with Jesus. Mary's once faithful and hopeful spirit is crushed by this devastating loss. Instead, of hanging on Jesus' every word as she did before, she is overcome with sorrow to the point that she doesn't move to greet Jesus. But interestingly, it is Martha's go-getter personality and persistance that leads to one of the greatest miracles of the New Testament as she boldly says to Jesus: "Lord, if you had been here my brother would not have died..."

This story reminds us that our God is the Lord of Life! Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. In this powerful moment, we are given a glimpse of what is to come and our faith is restored.
Reflection: Have you ever experienced the death of a loved one? At the time did you wonder where God was? How can we be comforted to know that our loved ones are at peace with Jesus?

ACTIVITY: Today, please pray for all those who have lost someone they love.
Pray for their healing and for peace during this difficult time.
Digital Content
Catholic Websites & YouTube Links
Here are some interesting articles from the website Aleteia that examine the Lazarus story in different ways.
Here are links to YouTube videos that reflect beautifully on today's Lazarus reading.
Watch the Mass Online
Additional Links
St. Thomas Aquinas Parish | stthomasaquinas.com