PRAYER CHANGES US INTO INSTRUMENTS OF GOD’S MERCY ~ CookingFood.Org

“GENEROUS LENT 2017”

Lenten Reflections

Thursday, 30^thMarch 2017.

Fourth Week of Lent

Ex 32: 7-14;

Ps 106: 19-23;

Jn 5: 31-47.

PRAYER CHANGES US INTO INSTRUMENTS OF GOD’S MERCY

Today’s first reading brings up a puzzling question. God is angry, ready to destroy the Israelites because of their idolatry. But, Moses steps in and talks him out of his decision. We might wonder, how can an eternal and unchanging God change his mind. It is something we may never understand. All we can say with any confidence is that Scripture gives us story after story that illustrates the power of prayer. Abraham negotiated with God to spare an entire city, if only a few upright people among us could pray like him to God.

The works performed by Jesus offer testimony to His mission given Him by the Father in Heaven. His works spoke a message to others about who He was. The witness of His actions revealed His very essence and His union with the will of the Father. Though His miracles were extraordinary and were signs to those who were willing to believe, the most profound “work” that He performed was that of His humble and genuine love. Jesus was genuine, honest and pure of heart. Therefore, the testimony that His ordinary actions of love, care, concern and teaching gave were what would have won over many hearts first and foremost. Even the smallest action of genuine love speaks volumes to others.

Let us reflect today, if we are willing to follow Moses’ example and spend time to know God, become familiar with the way he loves us. Are we willing to open ourselves to him so that we can experience his mercy? Are we willing to reach out for others who are less fortunate than us, so that we can move God’s heart to the needs of his people? Reflect also upon our call to give testimony to the Father in Heaven, to share the love of the Father with everyone we meet. If we embrace this mission, the Gospel will be made manifest to others through us, and the will of the Father will be more fully accomplished in our world.

Prayer: Lord, I pray that I act as a witness to the love flowing from Your Heart. Give me the grace to be real, genuine and sincere. Help me to become a pure instrument of Your merciful Heart so that all my works will give testimony to Your mercy. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen.