As we find ourselves nearing the end of Lent, today’s readings point to what God has been doing for us during this time…making things new.  Through our Lenten sacrifices and prayers, God has been purging us from the “old” ways of sin and guiding us toward a newer, stronger relationship with Him. 

In the first reading, Isaiah is reminding the Babylonian exiles that God not only did mighty deeds for their ancestors, but that He continues to perform awesome deeds for them. The psalm continues this theme, telling all to rejoice in the wonderful things God is doing NOW. And in the Gospel reading, we hear the story of the woman accused of adultery. The Jewish leaders, who are looking at the past, want not only to condemn her to death but also to trap Jesus. However, Jesus points to a new way which is not based solely on the law but forces the accusers to examine their own lives. Then, He offers the woman a second chance; He will not condemn her, but tells to go, and not sin again. That is precisely the message that He still speaks to all of us…forgiveness and compassion over condemnation.

How often do we look to the past, at previous sins or injustices that either we’ve committed or that have been committed against us? Today’s message should focus us on looking to the future and the great things that God has in store for all of us. God is continually “making things new”; have we the vision that allows us to focus on them? St. Paul notes in his letter to the Philippians that, while once he found satisfaction in his “righteousness,” now he rejoices in what God is doing for and through him. May we have that same mindset as we approach Good Friday and Easter.

Reflection by Parishioner John Ceglarek