Mass Readings and Reflection March 28th 2026

First Reading – (Ezekiel 37:21–28)

Psalm – (Jeremiah 31)

The Lord gathers His people like a shepherd.
He redeems them, turns mourning into joy, and fills them with gladness and peace.

Alleluia Verse – (Ezekiel 18:31)

Turn away from sin and make a new heart and a new spirit.

Gospel – (John 11:45–57)

Reflection:

Today’s Gospel brings us to the aftermath of the raising of Lazarus. Scholars note that in the Gospel of John, the gift of life to Lazarus becomes the cause of death for Jesus. This miracle leads to fear among the leaders, prompting the council to act.

Jesus sets His face toward Jerusalem, fully aware of what awaits Him. At the same time, there was a belief that when the high priest spoke for the nation, God could speak through him prophetically. There is a deep irony here: Caiaphas declares that one man must die for the people, unknowingly prophesying the saving mission of Christ.

Meanwhile, the prophet Ezekiel speaks of God gathering His people into one nation, under one shepherd, in a lasting covenant. Caiaphas echoes this unknowingly when he says that Jesus will gather the scattered children of God into one.

Jesus did not act recklessly. He did not rush toward death before His mission was complete. He waited for the appointed time, when nothing would stop Him from fulfilling His Father’s will.

St. Augustine reflects on this mystery, saying that the Passion of Christ is both our hope and our lesson in patience. Christ, though sinless, suffered for sinners. If He endured punishment for us, how much more will He reward those who seek righteousness through Him?

He reminds us to proclaim Christ crucified, not in fear or shame, but in joy and glory.

On the path to victory, Jesus carried the cross for us and invites us to share in that journey. Because of His suffering, we are brought into the presence of God.

So the question remains:
Are we ready to take up our crosses and follow Christ?

Remember, He will never give us more than we can handle. Whatever we might be going through, whatever suffering we carry, offer it to Him.

Many ask, “Why me?”
But perhaps the better question is: Why not me?

As we enter Holy Week, let us surrender everything to the Lord. Each of us has a cross, custom-made, uniquely ours. And through it, Christ invites us into union with Him.

Say to Him:
“Jesus, thank you for allowing me to walk this journey with you.”

And may we always be ready to follow Him, to suffer with Him if needed, so that one day we may share in His victory and glory.

Amen.

God bless you 🙏