Catholic Identity

Creator God, we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, as we walk together on your path of love, hope and faith.

Thank you for the gifts of our school, 

our environment, our families and friends.

May our school be a place of learning, care, welcome and celebration.

Mary our Mother, pray for us.

St Mary of the Cross, pray for us. 

Amen

Reflection on John 3:14-21

Today's Gospel passage makes little sense without knowing the background story from Numbers 21:4-9. The book of Numbers describes how the people of Israel became impatient and frustrated with God. They were still in the wilderness after having fled Egypt. Food and water were scarce and so they complained against Moses and against God. Some viciously poisonous serpents appeared and killed many of the people. 

When they repented, God instructed Moses to 'make a snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live'. The serpent became a mark of God's mercy. In the book of Numbers, God saved people by calling upon them to gaze on the serpent. Now, at the end of Lent, God will save us, His people, by having us gaze in belief upon His Son, lifted up and crucified.

In the Gospel of John, Chapter 3, verses 14 to 21, we encounter a profound reflection on the essence of Lent, a period of repentance, reflection, and renewal in the Christian faith.

Jesus refers to the story of Moses lifting the serpent in the wilderness, drawing parallels to his impending crucifixion. Just as the Israelites looked upon the bronze serpent and were healed from the venomous bites, so too will those who look upon Jesus lifted up on the cross be saved from the sting of sin and death.

This imagery is poignant during Lent, as we journey through a season of introspection and self-examination. We are called to gaze upon the cross, to confront the reality of our own sinfulness, and to acknowledge our need for redemption.

Lent is not merely a time of sombre reflection but also a season of hope. Jesus declares that God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, not to condemn the world, but to save it. This profound act of love is the cornerstone of our faith and the source of our salvation.

As we journey through Lent, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author, and perfecter of our faith. Let us repent of our sins, turn towards God, and embrace the abundant life that Christ offers. May we walk in the light of his truth, allowing his love to illuminate our hearts and guide our paths.

In the midst of darkness, may we remember that the light of Christ shines brightest, offering hope, healing, and salvation to all who believe. 

Let us Pray:

Lord, when all is in darkness and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us the sense of your presence; your love and strength. 

Help us to have perfect trust in your protecting love. Bless us with your strengthening power so nothing may frighten or worry us. 

We trust that in living close to you, we shall see your hand, your purpose, and your will through all things. 

Amen