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April 10, 2011, Fifth Sunday in Lent

"You are the salt of the earth ... the light of the world." (Matthew 5:13,14)

READINGS:

1. Ezekiel 37:12-14
2. Romans 8:8-11
3. Gospel of John 11:1-45            Readings Here

REFLECTION: Each of us experiences times of darkness, when we think that even God has left us. Darkness can come from loss of a friend, or a job, or health, or one’s home, or from the death of someone very close. At these times, light usually begins to come through some other person’s kindness and support.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, you are the light of the world. Fill our hearts and minds with your light and help us to bring it to others in time of need. Amen.

FAMILY DISCUSSION/ACTIVITY:

Monday:  Think of times in your life when things seem dark. What happened? Who was involved in bringing light to you?

Tuesday:  Meditate today on your best description or symbol for light. Is it the sun, a fire, a candle, or some other symbol? How does this light best describe your experience of God?

Wednesday:  Pray the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary today with your family. Pray that our leadership will be open to light in making decisions.

Thursday:  Share today with your family some experience of light and salt. Light many candles at the table; put the saltshakers out obviously on the table. See what questions arise.

Friday:  Do something today with the intention of bringing light or salt to another.

Saturday:  Celebrate salt tonight with the family. Serve some popcorn with no salt. See if they ask for salt. Talk about the good things that salt does for us.

PRAYER: Lord God, we thank you for the gift of salt. It flavors our food and keeps the water in our bodies in proper balance. The salt of your Living Presence gives us joy and hope. Amen.