Note: These are the readings for “Year C” in the Lectionary for Mass. On the 3rd, 4th and 5th Sundays of Lent, parishes may use the “Year A” readings at Masses that include members of the RCIA process.
For some people, going to Mass can seem like a “Catholic workout” of genuflect-stand-sit-kneel…repeat, repeat. Yet these postures all have a crucial part to play in our prayer as they form our faith. In this third of six presentations on the Eucharist, we discover how different postures enhance the depth and power of the sacraments.
While teaching about the need to repent, Jesus offers a parable that challenges us to cultivate a fruitful life. Where do we get the courage to do this? We recognize that Christ is the master gardener who lovingly tends to the care of our souls!
St. Joseph is the strong, silent saint who we are told is righteous and steadfast in carrying out God’s will. May his example inspire us to live our faith with vibrant actions that proclaim that the Lord is the center of our lives.
Both the prophet Jeremiah and the parable of Jesus reveal how God has provided us with the tools we need to foster our faith for the spiritual life. The question now: will we use them?
Matthew’s Gospel reveals both the Cross of Christ and the Cup of suffering. As disciples of Jesus, we must be prepared for both throughout the course of our lives.
Here are some of the main themes in the readings for the 3rd Sunday of Lent.
1st Reading – Exodus 3:1-8a,13-15
Moses encounters the Lord who speaks from the burning bush.
God announces the plan to save the people of Israel from their bondage in Egypt and will be called “I AM” when the people ask Moses what is God’s name.
Psalm – 103:1-4,6-8,11
“The Lord is kind and merciful.”
God is merciful and gracious, healing, redeeming and pardoning our sins.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 10:1-6,10-12
St. Paul recounts part of the mistakes of the people of Israel as they fled Egypt.
We are encouraged to learn from this and seek what is good as we follow Jesus Christ.
Gospel – Luke 13:1-9
Jesus speaks to the people, encouraging them to repent.
The Lord then offers a parable about cultivating a fruitful life, and he includes a warning if we neglect our growth.
Note: These are the readings for “Year C” in the Lectionary for Mass. On the 3rd, 4th and 5th Sundays of Lent, parishes may use the “Year A” readings at Masses that includes members of the RCIA process.
Three Great Things 