4th Week of Lent - Tuesday C

The first reading from the prophet Ezekiel paints a vivid picture of a river flowing from the temple, a symbol of God’s presence and grace. This water, as it travels, transforms everything in its path. Salt water becomes fresh, barren land flourishes with trees, and life abounds where there was once emptiness. We can see here a beautiful foreshadowing of the grace that Christ brings into our lives—a grace that flows abundantly from the very heart of God.

Ezekiel’s vision of the river and the fruit-bearing trees reminds us of our own need for nourishment and healing. In the hustle and bustle of life, it can be easy to forget that we are called to immerse ourselves into these healing waters. Each of us carries wounds—perhaps they are physical, emotional, or spiritual. Just like the trees that flourish along the riverbanks, we too are called to thrive in God's grace, continuously renewed and nourished by His love.

As we transition into the Gospel, we encounter a man who has been suffering for thirty-eight long years. Thirty-eight years of longing, despair, and waiting. When Jesus approaches him and asks the poignant question, “Do you want to be well?” it may seem an odd thing to ask. After so long in suffering, perhaps we expect a simple, straightforward request for healing. However, Jesus seems to be inviting the man into a deeper reflection—not just about physical healing, but about hope, faith, and the willingness to respond to God's call.

The man's response reveals a barrier, an obstacle that we often face: he feels stuck, powerless, and alone, believing that he cannot find healing without help. Yet, in that moment, Jesus, the source of life and healing, commands him: “Rise, take up your mat, and walk.” Here, we witness God’s initiative to intervened against despair and hopelessness. Jesus does not simply wait for the man to find a way into the water; he empowers him to take action and step into a new life.

Both readings ask us to ponder: what mats have we been lying on? What burdens have we carried that keep us from experiencing the fullness of life that God desires for us? In this Lenten season, we are called to acknowledge and lay down those burdens. God invites us to think about the ways we might be passive participants in our healing, waiting for someone or something external to stir the waters, rather than recognizing that we have access to the transformative grace of God right here and now.

As we reflect on these powerful scriptures, let us strive to approach the river of God’s grace with a heart open to healing. Let us pray for the courage to rise from our places of despair—to take up our mats and walk in faith, trusting that God is with us. Let us also remember to support one another in this journey, encouraging our brothers and sisters to seek and receive the healing that is available to them. 

In this season of Lent, may we allow the life-giving waters from the sanctuary to wash over us, revitalizing our hearts and strengthening our faith. May we become, like those trees along the riverbank, fruitful bearers of joy and life, drawing others to the life they can find in Christ.

Amen.