FOCUS: God relents in punishing his people and instead offers them salvation and new life. 

We are reminded today that the gift of salvation in Christ is rooted in God’s deep love for his people. Despite our infidelity and our sins – our hardness of heart – God’s love and mercy are ever present, offering us another chance to live according to his Word. 

Antiphon

Let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice; turn to the Lord and his strength; constantly seek his face.

Collect

We invoke your mercy in humble prayer, O Lord, that you may cause us, your servants, corrected by penance and schooled by good works, to persevere sincerely in your commands and come safely to the paschal festivities. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

LITURGY OF THE WORD 

In the first reading, God desires to impose his wrath upon the stiff-necked people he has brought out of slavery, but Moses intervenes on their behalf and God relents. In the Gospel, Jesus points out to the Jews their lack of consistency – they keep seeking signs and never seem to be open to listen to God’s messengers. 

1) Exodus 32:7-14

2) John 5:31-47 

Prayers of the Faithful

As we continue our Lenten journey, we bring our needs to the Lord with trust and confidence.

For all the Church, during this Lenten season may the Lord increase in us hearts for sharing and self-denial, let us pray to the Lord. 

For all who serve either as elected or appointed authorities, may the God of wisdom bless them with the skills and gifts necessary for true servant leadership, let us pray to the Lord. 

For God’s protection for all of God’s children, for the health and safety of everyone during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic, we pray to the Lord.

For continuous coordinated efforts among individuals, nations and societies as we all work together to prevent further spread of the coronavirus, we pray to the Lord.

For healthcare workers and all who are on the front-lines, especially those in positions of vulnerability as they work to serve their neighbors, we pray to the Lord.

For those are sick and suffering, especially for those who are isolated and without help, for their healing, we pray to the Lord.

For all who have died, may they come to share in the fullness of Christ’s glory, let us pray to the Lord. 

Almighty God, as you once heard the prayers of your Son, Jesus Christ, hear now our prayers and petitions. We make our prayer through Christ our Lord. 

Final Prayer

O God, protector of all who hope in you, bless your people, keep them safe, defend them, prepare them, that, free from sin and safe from the enemy, they may persevere always in your love. Through Christ our Lord. Amen