Sixth reflection of the second week of Lent
In the second week of Lent, we allow ourselves to be challenged by Father Lorenzo Baldella’s meditations. Insights that… cannot leave us indifferent:
«“Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Lk 23:42).
Are we now permitted to search the heart of Christ, hanging from the cross, and see whether joy is found there, precisely at this moment? I believe that if we try to enter his heart, we will certainly find joy there.
The face of the Father, described in the parables, shines forth in Jesus precisely at this moment when he is granting forgiveness to his mockers and the repentant thief. We must not forget one thing: Jesus is in the Father and the Father is in Jesus, even and especially at this moment when his love is sublimely revealed on and from the cross. The Gospel does not say so explicitly, but we are certain that the forgiveness granted by Jesus on the cross was received and welcomed with immense joy.
The joy of the Father, the joy of Jesus, can only also be our joy when, either alone or together with the community, having received forgiveness, we return to the arms of God’s mercy. If “there will be joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, more than over ninety-nine righteous persons who have no need of repentance” (Lk 15:7), there is no reason why this joy should not also take place on earth. The Father and the Son gave rise to this joy, which heaven and earth always share».
Do I ever think that the Father is waiting for me to give me his embrace and forgiveness?
I’ll be waiting for you on Monday morning to continue reflecting together!
