SHORT HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF THE 4TH WEEK OF LENT (2)

SHORT HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF THE 4TH WEEK OF LENT

THEME: JESUS THE LIVING WATER

BY: Fr. Francis Onwnali

HOMILY: The central theme of the readings of today is “Jesus as the Living Water that brings life to anyone who encounters Him”.

In the first reading (Ezk 47: 1-9, 12), God put into the heart of Prophet Ezekiel, a vision of the rivers of living water flowing from God’s heavenly Temple to bring healing and restoration to God’s people. As this water flows out in the parched and barren land, it gives life to all sorts of plant and animal that are nearby. It gives life to the Arabah (Dead Sea area) as it flows into it. This water which began at the house of God gains power and truly gives life. God is able to make fertile every barren or arid part or situation in your life. Are you ready to come to God with trust and expectant faith?

In the gospel (John 5: 1-3, 5-16), we see the fulfilment of this life-giving water in Jesus when He healed the sick man at the pool of Bethzatha on His way to the temple. This paralyzed man has been waiting helplessly for 38 years to be put into the water for healing. Jesus offered him not only prospects of help but total healing. However, Jesus warned him not to sin again or worse things may come his way.

Dear friends, the worst thing that can happen to a human being is the second death (Rev. 2:11), hell, which is everlasting damnation and alienation from God. This is not God’s wish for us. God wants us to be saved (1Tm 2: 4). That is the essence of the mystery of the Incarnation (Jn 3:16). The question is: Do I really want to be healed- to be forgiven, set free from guilt and sin, from anger and disordered passion?

I pray as we journey in life today, we will embrace the first essential step for healing- readiness for change and expectant faith. Jesus, the living water, is ready to wash us clean and speak those healing words: “pick up your mat and walk”. May the freshness of this Living Water bring joy and healing to our lives and in our world. May it also touch the barren spots of our lives.

Have a Refreshing-full day!

-Fr. Francis Onwnali