28 March 2023
Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent
How pertinent for me is today’s 1st reading. People, once joyful pilgrims on the way to the Promised Land, encounter elements that drain enthusiasm: hot climate, a lack of food and water, a weary endless trail. Finally, poisonous snakes! I can identify with these pilgrims. The symbols may be different; the meaning is the same.
They then complained against God for sending them evil. Well could they say, “Lord, we have left everything and followed you” (Matt 19:27), Now, look what we’ve got! Thanks a lot!”
God instructed Moses to have the people craft a bronze image of a snake, lift it high on a pole and anyone bitten by a live snake looks at it will be healed. Weird? No, the symbol is of Christ lifted high on the cross and the crosses in my life can lead to a better knowledge of how peace and happiness can come through pain.
Resolve: I shall reflect on this readings today as a preparation for a deeper meaning of Good Friday, and I shall ask the the Father to give me courage from, and a better understanding of the daily crosses I face in my pilgrimage with Christ to the Promised Land.