Lord we pray "Help me to continually increase parish vitality and reflect the presence of Christ in the world."

Browsing The Carpenter's Bench Blog

"Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world."

Fifth Sunday of Lent

The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is an event that draws all of creation toward God. When we take part in the devotion of the Stations of the Cross, traditionally we say, "Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world." That means more than just the people of this world; it means all of creation.

As good stewards, we are called to attest to the glory of God in all he has created. Everywhere we look we can see evidence of his handiwork and have the opportunity to reflect on how he has created the world for our benefit. Seeing all of creation as redeemed because of the dying and rising of Christ helps us with this reflection. Truly, all things are made new.

With only two weeks left in Lent, we still have a chance to echo the words of this Sunday's psalm, "Create a clean heart in me, O God." Perhaps we are unable to see the glory of God in creation because of our own sin. We need to repent and return to God, and then we can see with new eyes. Make this Easter a time for real, meaningful celebration as all of creation sings to the Lord.

From the Shared Weekly Bulletin of St. Joseph and St. Ann Parishes: Sunday, March 22, 2015