Fourth Sunday in Lent, March 31, 2019

Plan ahead -- It wasn't raining when Noah built the ark

The fourth Sunday of Lent is rather unique; it is a break in an otherwise penitential season. The vestments for this day will be rose and flowers may adorn the Altar. This day is called "Laetare Sunday" (also "Rose Sunday"), and takes its name from the opening words of the Mass, the Introit's "Laetare, Jerusalem": The rose vestments on Laetare Sunday is a custom originating in the fact that, as a symbol of joy and hope in the middle of this somber Season, popes used to carry a golden rose in their right hand when returning from the celebration of Mass on this day. The golden rose represents Christ in the shining splendor of His majesty, the "flower sprung from the root of Jesse."

Scripture ...
Luke 22:49-51

Reflections ...

The sleepy disciples quickly awaken at the soldiers’ approach. Even though Jesus has stepped forward to shield them (see John 18:4, 8), they ask their Master if He wants them to strike with the sword and defend Him. One doesn’t wait for His answer. Peter attacks the servant of the high priest.

Jesus is deeply concerned about the safety of His disciples and those who have come out to arrest Him. Peter’s rash act threatens to escalate the tense situation into violence and bloodshed, forcing the soldiers to rush in with drawn weapons to put down the violence. Jesus immediately steps in and defuses it. He commands His disciples to put away their swords (see Matthew 26:52).

Then He demonstrates incredible care for the high priest’s servant whose ear Peter has severed. Jesus immediately restores his ear and heals him. He brings peace and calm out of impending chaos.

His actions perfectly display the love He feels for His Father and for each of us. It’s a love that will prompt His first words from the cross in a few hours: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34b). And whether that servant ever comes to faith in Jesus or not, for the remainder of his life he will bear the evidence in his body of the last miracle Jesus performed in His earthly life.

Prayer ...
Lord Jesus, You protected Your disciples while demonstrating Your concern for a wounded soldier, who had come out against You. Give me such love toward my enemies that I may treat them kindly and may bring them to faith. Amen.

Lenten Challenge for today …
Fast from your favourite fast food (you know what I mean, burgers, pizzas, grills, etc.). This can be pretty easy as long as you don’t see any pictures of it..

Hymn ...

Quiz ...

1. Click the correct option.

2. Click Submit

3. Scroll up and click View Accuracy to see your result.

4. Have fun while you learn your faith.

Credits:

Thanks to various sites for the ideas .  I have tailored the materials accordingly to suit my needs.

Countdown calendar - https://www.timeanddate.com/clocks/freecountdown.html

Reflections and prayer – https://www.lhm.org/

Luke 22 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttt4pQe_zFE