[F]or the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.
I Cor. 1:25
Third Sunday of Lent – I Corinthians 1
For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength – I Cor 1:25.
Today’s Lenten Reflection
The paradox of the Cross is central to the life of every Christian. Salvation was earned through suffering, through carrying the Cross. Victory over death was earned through the most barbaric treatment, humiliation, mockery, and ultimate execution. Understood in basic human terms, the crucifixion would be something thatt most would like to downplay or even hide. After all, why would anyone want to advertise someone suffering – a crucified King? But Christians do not hide the Cross. Rather, we proudly display it as a sign of victory! Of hope, faith, and final things to come.
While many of us hang a crucifix in our home and wear one around our neck, reminding us of salvation through grace, we should also reflect upon the Lord’s suffering. In doing so, we begin to better understand the reason behind our own sufferings here on earth and why we are called to bear these smaller cross(es) with strength and dignity. Ultimately the Cross is a sign and reminder that God will save His people in spite of their shortcomings, and carrying the cross is a prerequisite for victory.
After the cleansing of the temple in today’s Gospel, the story ends reminding the reader that Jesus did not need anyone to testify to Him about human nature or how difficult this life is. He understood it well and showed us how to triumph (John 2:25). Just think how blessed we are to serve a loving God; a God willing to come down from Heaven draped in humility, born in a dirty manger to an impoverished teenage girl, live a life of poverty, die in shame and pain, and ultimately entrust His divine mission to a group of lowly fishermen. No doubt, Godly wisdom is oftentimes disguised as foolishness; strength disguised as weakness; and salvation disguised as death on a Cross. Thanks be to God!
Third Sunday of Lent Meditation
This week, notice the crosses hanging around you and reflect upon their profound meaning. If you are wearing one around your neck or displaying one in your home, car, or office, ask yourself: are you are faithfully living out its message? If not, how can you do so more often and faithfully? Short contemplations such as this especially in front of a Crucifix will cause the soul to flourish. Every time we contemplate on and carry the cross, we mark ourselves as one of His tribe – a true disciple who, despite all shortcomings, perseveres towards the final end of victory.
Lenten Prayer
Provident Father, thank You for sending Your Son to purify us of our sins. Even when we are frustrated, please give us the grace to accept His work within us with a spirit of gratitude. God of all faithfulness, we vow to trust in Your divine wisdom even when we do not understand it, even when the world thinks we are fools for believing in a crucified King. We believe, we trust, and we love You forever and ever. Amen.
Today’s suggested Penance
Make plans to volunteer somewhere in your community that is dedicated to helping the poor. Follow through on the commitment.
“Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections but instantly set about remedying them. Everyday begin the task anew” –St. Francis de Sales.
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