Mass Readings and Reflection for March 18th 2026

First Reading: (Isaiah 49:8–15)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 145) "The Lord is kind and full of compassion".

Gospel: (John 5:17–30)

Reflection:
Rich scripture readings today. God has not and will never abandon us. Through the prophet Isaiah, we hear a question that touches the very core of human love: “Can a mother forget her child?” Even if such a thing were possible, God declares, “I will never forget you.” These words are meant especially for those who feel forgotten, those weighed down by suffering, loss, or unanswered prayers.

Like Israel in exile, many of us have moments where we ask: Where is God? Does He see my pain? Does He hear my cry? In those moments, it is easy to conclude, like Zion, “The Lord has forsaken me.” But today’s reading corrects that fear. God is not absent; He is present, even when silent. His ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts. What we see as delay, He sees as perfect timing.

The Gospel deepens this truth. Jesus reminds us that the Father is always at work. Even when nothing seems to be happening, God is working, giving life, bringing healing, preparing something greater than we can understand. Just as the Father raises the dead, so too the Son gives life. This means that no situation is beyond God’s power, not even the darkest moments of our lives.

We must also remember that sometimes God allows difficulties not to destroy us, but to reveal His glory. Just as in other parts of the Gospel, suffering can become the place where God’s power is made visible. What seems like an ending may actually be the beginning of something greater in God’s plan.

So what are we called to do? We are called to trust, to pray, and to surrender. This is not easy. In pain, we are tempted to give up, to lose faith. But the example of Christ shows us the way: “Father, not my will, but yours be done.” When we entrust everything into God’s hands, even our suffering becomes a path to grace.

Therefore, be consoled. Even if you have lost someone you love, even if your prayers seem unanswered, even if you feel alone, God has not abandoned you. He sees you. He knows you. He is working in ways you cannot yet understand. And in His time, His glory will be revealed.

Hold on to this truth: God has not forgotten you, and He never will.

Amen 🙏