Encountering God’s Mercy: Reflections for the Third Sunday of Lent
Encountering God’s Mercy: Reflections for the Third Sunday of Lent (Year C)
Lent invites us to slow down and turn our hearts back to God. On this Third Sunday of Lent (Year C), the readings offer powerful reminders of God’s call, our need for repentance, and the patience of divine mercy.
God Calls Us from the Fire – Exodus 3:1-8a, 13-15
In the first reading, Moses encounters God in the burning bush—a miraculous sign that the ordinary moment has become sacred. God calls him by name, revealing His identity: “I am who am.” This intimate name shows us that God is not distant. He hears the cries of His people, sees their suffering, and comes down to save.
God also calls each of us by name. During Lent, He invites us to remove our sandals—to humble ourselves—and recognize the holy ground of our daily lives. Will we notice the burning bushes in our midst? Will we listen and respond?
Learn from the Past – 1 Corinthians 10:1-6, 10-12
St. Paul reminds the Corinthians that even those who walked through miracles can fall. Though their ancestors were baptized into Moses and drank from the spiritual rock (Christ), they failed to remain faithful.
This reading is a wake-up call: spiritual experiences alone are not enough. Lent is a time of examination. Do we desire what is good, or are we tempted by what the world offers? Paul warns, “Whoever thinks he is standing secure should take care not to fall.” Lent invites humility, vigilance, and a return to God.
Repent or Perish – Luke 13:1-9
Jesus addresses a common temptation: to assume tragedy is punishment for sin. He challenges this thinking and redirects it. “Do you think they were more guilty…? By no means!” Jesus calls everyone to repentance—not out of fear, but out of love.
The parable of the fig tree is especially moving. God is the patient gardener who sees potential in us. Even when we fail to bear fruit, He cultivates the soil, nourishes our hearts, and gives us time to grow. But Lent is not forever. There is urgency in the call to repent—not because God is eager to condemn, but because He longs to see us flourish.
A Time to Turn Back
This Sunday’s readings offer three clear invitations:
Notice God’s presence in your life. He still calls from burning bushes.
Learn from the past and remain vigilant in your spiritual journey.
Repent and bear fruit, trusting in God’s patience and mercy.
Lent is not about shame—it’s about transformation. May this week be a holy turning point, where we remove our sandals, listen to God’s voice, and step forward in faith.
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Did You Pray Today?
Daily prayer is a powerful way to strengthen your faith, find peace, and invite God’s presence into your life. Even a few moments of prayer can bring clarity, comfort, and spiritual renewal. Whether you are starting your day, taking a break, or preparing for sleep, these short yet meaningful prayers help you stay connected to God.
Take a moment now to pray:
The Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Our Father (The Lord’s Prayer)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
The Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
A Daily Habit of Prayer: These prayers take less than a minute, yet they bring us closer to God each day. Keep prayer at the center of your life and experience His love and guidance.
Walking in Faith, Growing in Grace
Every day is an opportunity to draw closer to God. In prayer, in scripture, and in the moments of stillness, He speaks to our hearts. Faith is not just about knowing—it’s about living, trusting, and walking in His light.
Through life’s joys and challenges, we are called to remain steadfast, to seek Him in all things, and to reflect His love in our words and actions. Even the smallest acts of faith— a whispered prayer, a kind word, a moment of gratitude— bring us deeper into His presence.
May this space be a source of encouragement, reflection, and renewal for you. Wherever you are on your journey, know that God is with you. Keep the faith, stay rooted in prayer, and continue seeking His truth.