March 14, 2021 Sunday of the 4th Week in Lent-B

2 Chronicles 36:14-16, 19-23

Psalm 137

Ephesians 2:4-10

John 3:14-21

Those who escaped the sword were carried captive to Babylon… 2 Chron. 36:20

For by grace you have been saved through faith… Eph 2:8

Lord, whenever young children rebel we put them in “time out.” When our teens violate the rules we’ve set for them they lose privileges and are grounded. The arrogant and disobedient people of Israel got a taste of discipline when they went into exile for 70 years. They learned there are consequences for infidelity. Lord, the story of the Old Testament over and over is that we are accountable for our disobedience to your word and unfaithful to our relationship with you. Just as the Persian King Cyrus restored the people of Israel to their land you restored all mankind to a right relationship with our Creator. Through your grace and the sacrament of Reconciliation we are set free from our exile. Even if I go astray you do not abandon me. The good news today is that I don’t have to remain in exile. My dear Jesus, your discipline for me, while unpleasant and even painful, gives me a second chance and a new beginning in my commitment to you. Faith in you leads to eternal life free from all harm and trouble.  Thank you, Lord, for your tough love.  Amen.