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March 28, 2012, Fourth Sunday of Lent

"...the light came into the world." (John 3:19)

READINGS:

1. 2 Chronicles 36, 14-16, 19-23
2. Psalm 137:1-6
3. Eph 2, 4-10
4. Gospel John 3, 14-21            (Click Here for Readings)

REFLECTION: From the first fires in prehistoric caves to the piercing beams of lasers, light has played a major role in the development of mankind. Light is what protects us from darkness; light warms us and illuminates our work; light chases the shadows and makes everything clear. These days in the North, the heat of the sun is a constant reminder that “spring,” new life is near. Springtime and lent have much in common. They both reveal the darkness. We need not fear for we have the actual presence of the One who is Light.

PRAYER: Father, you so loved the world that you sent us your only Son and he became a light shining in the darkness. May he now enlighten our minds and hearts. May we put into practice in our lives what we know of His love.

FAMILY DISCUSSION/ACTIVITY:

Monday: In the Greek Church at mid-Lent, Middle Cross day is celebrated. On this day bread is baked in the shape of a cross and eaten. You might want to do this yourself with the family—or serve hot cross buns.

Tuesday: Another suggestion for celebrating springtime and the demise of winter is this: bake a gingerbread cake or figure of some type and frost with white icing. Then eat it up to signify the end of winter and the new life of spring. Try this with the family for mid-Lent.

Wednesday: Lent is a time of forgiveness and renewal, a chance for a fresh start. Check on the date for the Reconciliation Service in your parish and plan to have the family attend.

 Thursday: The image of light is important in this Sunday’s gospel. Try a candlelight prayer service at home tonight. Give everyone in the family a candle; then turn off the lights. Have each person one by one light his or her candle and say what light each one brings to the family. Conclude with an Our Father.

Friday: Pray the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary tonight (click here for video) especially for the poor and needy.

Saturday: The mood of Lent will change this next week from looking forward in hope and will take on the spirit of Christ’s suffering. Spend some time today preparing for this change and mood.

PRAYER: Father, in your Son you have given us hope to go on and a goal to reach. Stay with us so that the hope will not wither. Set before us this springtime daily signs of the new life ahead. We pray especially for signs of peace in our world. Amen.