The Fourth Sunday of lent is also referred to as Laetare (Rejoice!) Sunday. We are invited to rejoice as we approach the celebration of the ultimate victory, Jesus conquers death through the Cross and Resurrection. We also do the Second Scrutiny for the Catechumens, our brothers and sisters preparing for full initiation through Baptism, Confirmation, and Communion.

The Gospel (from Year A) read in the Mass with the Second Scrutiny is John 9: 1-14, “the man born blind from birth.” When asked by his disciples why the man was born blind, Jesus responds with these words. “Neither he nor his parents sinned; it is so that the works of God might made visible through him.” And: “While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

At the other Masses, the Gospel (Year C) read in the Mass is that of the Prodigal Son or the Loving Father (Luke 15: 1-3, 11-32). The themes running through the Gospels today are healing form blindness and witnessing to the presence Jesus in our world; forgiveness and reconciliation.

We are invited through God’s Word today to ask ourselves: are there times when I am blinded to the presence of Jesus in other people? Do I need forgiveness or do I need to offer forgiveness, to be reconciled to another person or people in my life? When we recognize the presence of Jesus in others and we are willing to seek forgiveness or offer forgiveness, we become Pilgrims of Hope.

Let us pray that we will be able to be Pilgrims of Hope this coming week. Thank you.

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