Sunday, April 6th

Scripture

Is 43: 16-21
Ps 126: 1-6
Phil 3: 8-14
Jn 8: 1-11

Reflection

“Remember not the events of the past, the things of long ago consider not.
See, I am doing something new!
Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” Is 43: 18-19

For most of us, we are a month into Daylight Saving Time, with a little more sunlight each day and the promise of warmer weather to come. This anticipation prompts us out of the darkness of winter toward the newness and promise of a new season. We are also a month into Lent and nearing Palm Sunday and Holy Week. Our prayers and practices of abstinence and penance are moving us toward the redemption and restoration of Resurrection morning. Isaiah speaks of this same kind of movement between God and Israel. God reminds Jacob that God has called Israel by name, has claimed its people as God’s own, and has faithfully guarded and protected them in the midst of whatever dangers and fears they may be experiencing. Jacob is exhorted not to dwell on the events of the past, but rather to remember the faithfulness and mercy of a God who is always moving in our lives in new and creative ways.

Like Jacob and the people of Israel, we forget about God’s unfailing love and presence in our lives…especially in times of darkness and doubt. It’s hard to see or feel God’s presence in the face of poverty, hate, division, and injustice; and it’s easy to get stuck in the overwhelming events of the moment. But God’s plan for us is always toward the good, and we need to look to the light and be aware of the movement of God in our lives.

Prayer

Gracious God, you know the fears I experience
and the worries of my heart.
Guide me to remember your presence and movement in my day.
Help me to be open to and trustful of your grace in times of doubt.

Personal Challenge

Today I will listen more deeply and look more closely to notice
how God is working in me, not only for myself, but also
for the dear neighbor.

Jim Boyd, CSJ Associate
Chicago, IL