April 5, 2019 Friday of the 4th Week of Lent-C

Wisdom 2:1, 12-22

Psalm 34

John 7:1-10, 10, 25-30

“…he sets himself against our doings…” Wisdom 2:12

So they tried to arrest him… John 7:30

Lord, the life of a prophet is difficult and filled with danger.  The reading from Wisdom describes the hatred and envy of those who were against the one who was trying to lead them back to God.  The gospel relates how the Jews were confused about who you were because they thought they knew where you came from.  You came from our heavenly Father.  In truth, it was again envy and anger that motivated them to want to kill you.  Repentance and reform are not popular topics in most circles.  We don’t like to be told that we must change our ways and give up our harmful practices.  Lord, may I look inside and bring to you one way that I am clinging to what harms my relationship with you or with someone close to me.  Lord, help me to believe that you have the power to heal and restore me to yourself.   May I not be like those in the readings who are blinded by their selfishness and pride.   Give me the grace to use the last days of Lent to truly give myself to you.  May I receive the sacrament of reconciliation with faith and trust in your forgiveness. Amen