2 Chronicles 36:14-16, 19-23, Ephesians 2:4-10, John 3:14-21  

As we approach the 4th Sunday of Lent, traditionally known as “Laetare” Sunday - a title culled from the first word of the antiphon at the introit, “Rejoice”, the readings unveil a message of hope and restoration. This Sunday stands as a vibrant prelude to the forthcoming Easter celebration, infusing a festive spirit into the Lenten  season.  

Tapestry of Divine Love: The Gospel verse encapsulates the essence of divine love: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.” The atmosphere of this Sunday is marked by vibrant colors, joy, and gladness, reflecting God’s continuous deliverance and mercy towards humanity. Analogous to a compassionate mother, God simultaneously corrects with one hand and consoles with the other echoing the sentiments of Isaiah 49:15.  

Israel’s Journey: A Tale of Redemption: The First Reading, drawn from the Second Book of Chronicles, narrates the arduous journey of God’s people through exile and subsequent restoration. Despite persistent warnings from messengers and prophets, the leaders, priests, and people of Judah engaged in a cycle of sin, defiling God and the Temple. The consequence was exile, stripping them of their pillars—Land, Dynasty, Temple, and Covenant. Yet, in their despair, they turned to God in nostalgia, leading to their eventual redemption through Cyrus, the Persian king.  

Rich in Mercy: A Pauline Perspective: In the Second Reading, Paul, in Ephesians, amplifies the richness of God’s mercy, emphasizing that our salvation is a gift of grace. Even in our spiritual deadness, God, propelled by immense love, breathes life into us through Christ. This profound act of grace is a testament to the redemptive power of God’s love.  

Looking Up in Faith: The Gospel narrative by John invites believers to mirror Israel’s cry to God during exile and their gaze upward in the desert’s trial. Drawing parallels to Moses lifting the serpent for healing, Jesus highlights that belief in Him leads to eternal life. God, the eternal rescuer, invites us to have faith and look up to Him for salvation, not as a people devoid of trust but as a community anchored in faith.   

Embracing the Hope: God, in sending His Son, sought not condemnation but salvation. This Sunday instills in us the hope that God’s love and care endure despite our past transgressions. As we eagerly anticipate the joyous Easter celebration, let it be with hearts redeemed in Christ, not as a people conquered by sin but as those restored through divine grace.  

The Miracle of Faith: The thoughts echo the essence of saintliness—those who don’t merely love God but are convinced of God’s love and redemption. This, the miracle of faith, propels us forward as we journey towards the glorious celebration of the Feast of our  Redemption in Christ Jesus our Lord.                                                                                                                                       Fr. Ikenna