March 26, Thursday Lenten Weekday

Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.--Psalm 106:4

Mass readings: Exodus 32:7-14 / John 5:31-47

So the Lord Relented

I can remember once being in terror because I had done something wrong and my father told me he was going to punish me severely. All day I quaked and waited for the axe to fall. It didn't. My mother interceded for me and I was spared the consequences of my misdemeanor.

The Jews, in the midst of their apostasy, were spared through the intercession of Moses. I, too, have sinned. I have not lived up to the faith I profess. I have, like Peter, denied Jesus. But for all my sinfulness, Jesus pleads for me with his Father, and the Father spares me the punishment I have deserved. Jesus offers me life and I turn my back on Him. When will I learn to appreciate the God of mercy and His Son, Jesus Christ?

Prayer: Lord, grant that I may never take Your intercession for granted.