Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent: A Path from Complaint to Redemption
As we journey through the Lenten season, Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent invites us into a moment of deep reflection. The readings from Numbers 21:4–9 and John 8:21–30 show us the dangers of losing trust—and the redeeming power of faith.
The Bronze Serpent: A Call to Trust in God’s Mercy
In the first reading (Numbers 21:4–9), the Israelites, worn out from their journey, rebel against God and Moses. Their complaints—“Why have you brought us up from Egypt to die in this desert?”—reflect a familiar human tendency to grumble in times of discomfort.
But their complaints bring about a terrifying consequence: saraph serpents, sent by the Lord, begin to bite the people, causing death among them.
In their suffering, the Israelites recognize their sin and turn back to God. They beg Moses to intercede—and God provides a surprising solution. Moses is instructed to craft a bronze serpent and raise it on a pole, so that anyone bitten can look upon it and live. This moment reveals God’s enduring mercy even in moments of divine correction.
“When You Lift Up the Son of Man”: Jesus Foretells the Cross
In the Gospel (John 8:21–30), Jesus speaks boldly to the Pharisees. His words are clear and convicting: “If you do not believe that I AM, you will die in your sins.”
This reading points us directly to the Cross. Just as the Israelites had to look upon the bronze serpent to be saved, Jesus tells us that when the Son of Man is lifted up, we will come to recognize who He truly is.
Jesus does not act on His own—He speaks what the Father has taught Him. His unity with the Father and His obedience lead many to believe in Him. The passage ends with hope: “Because he spoke this way, many came to believe in him.”
Living the Message: Lent as a Time to Look Up
This Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent invites us to consider what “serpents” we might need healing from. Are we carrying complaints, resentments, or doubts? Are we failing to trust that God is present even in hardship?
Jesus reminds us to look up—to see Him lifted on the Cross, and to believe. Like the Israelites, we are invited not to remain in our sin or fear, but to lift our eyes and live.
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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.