United in One Shepherd: Saturday of the Fifth Week of Lent Reflection
In today’s readings, we encounter the deep yearning of God to gather His people into unity, healing division, and restoring holiness. Through the prophet Ezekiel, God declares a promise of restoration:
“I will take the children of Israel from among the nations… and gather them from all sides to bring them back to their land… Never again shall they be divided into two kingdoms.”
(Ezekiel 37:21-22)
This is not just a political or geographic promise—it is a spiritual renewal. The Lord desires to cleanse His people from sin, idolatry, and separation. He promises to place one prince, one shepherd, over them—David, a foreshadowing of Christ. Through Jesus, God fulfills this everlasting covenant of peace, putting His dwelling among us.
One Nation, One Covenant
As we prepare for Holy Week, this prophecy takes on deeper meaning. In the Gospel of John, we see the high priest Caiaphas unknowingly proclaim a divine truth:
“It is better for you that one man should die instead of the people, so that the whole nation may not perish.”
(John 11:50)
Though spoken with fear and political motive, these words echo the heart of salvation: Jesus dies not only for Israel but to gather into one the dispersed children of God. His death becomes the doorway to a new covenant—a family united not by race or nation but by grace.
Reflection for Today
Are there places in our lives where division still exists—between ourselves and others, within our hearts, or in our relationship with God?
Let this final Saturday of Lent be a time of returning. God longs to gather us, cleanse us, and dwell with us. Jesus retreats briefly to Ephraim, knowing the cross is near. Let us follow Him—not just to the cross, but to the unity and peace it brings.
Prayer
Lord God, gather my scattered heart. Cleanse me from what divides me from You and others. Make me part of Your covenant of peace. Let Jesus, my Shepherd, guide me into unity with You and with all Your people. Amen.
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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.