It is 22nd March 2021.
The readings are from Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62; and the Gospel from John 8:1-11.
Whoever offends us unjustly, God always defends us justly.
At times, situation and scenes put us into a humiliating life situation. But during such situation, we need to place all our trusts in the Lord like the innocent Susanna. We can be condemned and cornered by an unjust crowd of people in our families, churches, and community. In such desperate moments, we all get perturbed and forget God. “I lift up my eyes to the mountains, where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord.” (Ps.121:1,2).
God sends God’s Spirit into someone like Daniel to rescue us from the lustful and merciless jaws of selfish and sinful people. The episode of Susanna is a gentle reminder that whatever we go through unjustly is keenly watched by God and God does not abandon us. Our faith and prayer need to be strong to face it all.
The scenario in our communities have not changed when it comes to treating women. What these two women went through is repeatedly happening in our neighbourhood. God has decided to safeguard the vulnerable and weak members of our communities.
The responsorial Psalm praises, “Though I walk in the valley of darkness I fear no evil, for you are with me.” (Ps.23:4).
Lent is not a time of self-condemnation but consistent return to the Lord. We have a loving and merciful Saviour Jesus who looks at us all with compassion and healing our wounds caused by people we live with. In the Gospel we are strengthened, even if the whole world is against us condemning, Jesus will stand by us to remind our worth before God. It is time to act justly, love tenderly and walk humbly with all those who through harassment, abuse, and neglect. May the Lord help us not to judge people unjustly but come to the help of those who are oppressed by the systems. Have a lovely day. God bless you.