THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT (C)
1st Reading: (Exodus 3:1-8a.13- 15)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 103:1-2.3-4.6-7.8 and 11 (R. 8a)
2nd Reading: 1 Corinthians 10: 1-6.10-12
Gospel Acclamation: Matthew 4:17
Gospel Reading: Luke 13:1-9
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| Lilian Ginika Edenweze |
REFLECTION
My reflections from the gospel are taken from the story of the fig tree that has not been bearing fruit, and the owner wants it to be cut out, but the vine dresser pleaded that it be given a second chance to be tended to add some manure and see what becomes it's outcome. So it is in our daily lives the good Lord always gives us a second chance to see if we can return to Him and at those times of the second chance He gives us things that can help us return and grow. Now, it is expected of us whom the Lord constantly shows mercy to return to the Lord who is gracious and begin to make use those things made available for us to grow and eventually begin to grow in righteousness bearing good fruits so that the master will not cut us off. Shalom.
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| Oparaji Christiana |
REFLECTION
Paul reminds the Corinthians and we in todays world that the Israelites experienced God’s guidance and provision in the wilderness but still faced His judgment due to *_disobedience_* . Their story serves as a warning against desiring *evil and grumbling* . He emphasizes that these events were recorded for instruction, urging believers to remain vigilant in faith, as overconfidence can lead to downfall.
Do not trust the flesh so much that you forget that it can as well lead to destruction.... Like they say, obedience is better than sacrifice.... Do what is right in the sight of God and man, so not think or speak evil.
Also learn to appreciate God and Human no matter how little that blessing or gift may seem... May God help us to always acknowledge his blessings and kindness towards us without grumbling or thinking of evil or envious towards another. Amen.
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| Mrs Gloria Obasogie |
REFLECTION
In this passage Saint Paul reminds us that we christians share a spiritual journey, just as the Israelites did with Moses. Partaking in the sacraments, Baptism and the Eucharist connect us to God’s covenant. The Israelites' mistakes—idolatry, immorality, and complaining—serve as warnings for us. Christians must stay humble and watchful in their faith. Temptation is common to us all, but God provides the strength and a way out. Showing Gratitude helps us avoid negativity and deepens our trust in God. Holiness requires avoiding sin and growing in faith through prayer, Scripture, and community. Believers should support and correct each other, staying faithful to Christ. Through God’s help and a strong Christian community, they can overcome challenges and remain steadfast.
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| Solomon Etsegbe |
REFLECTION
The first reading from Exodus 3:1-8a,13-15 tells the story of Moses' encounter with God in a burning bush. God commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, promising to be with him. Moses asks God's name, and God replies, "I AM WHO I AM."
The second reading from 1 Corinthians 10:1-6,10-12 warns against grumbling and disobedience. Paul reminds the Corinthians that the Israelites' experiences in the wilderness, including their rebellion and punishment, serve as examples for believers. He urges them to learn from these examples and avoid similar mistakes.
The Gospel reading from Luke 13:1-9 emphasizes the importance of repentance. Jesus responds to news of tragic events by cautioning against assuming that those who suffer are worse sinners than others. He tells the parable of the fig tree, which is given another chance to bear fruit before being cut down. Jesus' message is clear: repentance is necessary to avoid spiritual death.
Overall, these readings highlight God's presence and power, the importance of obedience and repentance, and the need to learn from past examples to avoid similar mistakes.
Shalom✝️
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| Mrs Egba Peace |
REFLECTION
First Reading
This passage narrates God's call to Moses from the burning bush, revealing His name as “I AM WHO I AM.” It highlights God's concern for His people and His power to save.
Second Reading
Paul warns against falling into sin by recalling the mistakes of Israel in the wilderness, urging believers to stand firm in faitth.
The Gospel emphasizes the urgency of turning back to God while there is still time.
God’s Call and Mercy: Just as God called Moses, He calls each of us for a purpose.
Paul warns against complacency and encourages perseverance in faith.
Brethren:
How do we respond to God's call like Moses?
What are the signs that we need spiritual renewal?
How does God's patience encourage us to change?
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| Emmanuel Ojo |
REFLECTION
..let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.
The best advice anyone could give or receive.
Best life saver if one could only but work with it.
When the supposed taxpayer approached the Altar of the Lord to pray, he did not take heed and behold he is humbly let down.
In addition to this amazing advice is the need for us to not grumble or desire evil.
In all we do, we should never fail to realise that we can not on our own do it except the God's Spirit enables us.
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| Sr. Cleopatra Mario Ogbonna |
REFLECTIONMy reflection in a poetic phase:
Just like the burning bush that burnt just a portion of the land, as a sign of attraction to Moses;
So does the Lord use things within our reach to attract us to Himself.
It is of the Lord's mercy that we have not been consumed
The Lord saw the afflictions of His children in Egypt and sent Moses to them;
Just as He is ever conscious of our own afflictions and has never permitted them to overcome us.l
It is of the Lord's mercy that we have not been consumed
The Israelites could have died from hunger and thirst, but they were provided with supernatural food and drink to sustain them;
Similarly, God has been providing for us, despite our frail nature.
It is of the Lord's mercy that we have not been consumed
The temptations, pains, sufferings, and destruction of some Israelites were recorded to instruct us;
Yet, we fail to adhere to those instructions, feeling we're immune to temptations.
It is of the Lord's mercy that we have not been consumed
Self-righteousness has become a trend... sinners condemning sinners for sinning differently;
Let's remember we're not holier or better than those experiencing painful situations or those who have passed on to eternal life.
It is of the Lord's mercy that we have not been consumed
Like the Vinedresser who appealed for the fig tree to be given more time to bear fruit;
our Lord Jesus Christ, the mediator with the Father, keeps appealing for us.
Yet, we feel secure in our human capabilities...
It is of the Lord's mercy that we have not been consumed
This Lenten season calls us to have a sober reflection of our lives, retrace our steps, acknowledge God's unwavering mercy and take solace in it whilst making amends for our sins....
As the Psalmist says, "The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and rich in mercy.
For as the heavens are high above the earth, so strong is His mercy for those who fear Him" and the Gospel Acclamation says " Repent for the kingdom of God is at hand".
It is of the Lord's mercy that we have not been consumed
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