# God's grace in word and sacrament
*2017-04-03*

> Bill Young reflects on the fifth Sunday of Lent, discussing the transformative power of God's Word and the Eucharist while sharing experiences from his travels in Granada, St. Joseph.

## A Sunday in Granada

I am currently in Granada, St. Joseph, where I attended Mass at a quaint Blessed Sacrament parish. It was a very nice, simple church; while it lacked the air conditioning and abundance of kneelers found in the States, it had a wonderful breeze and a truly Catholic spirit. The experience was unique—the music sounded like revival Baptist music, and the priest frequently sought feedback and 'amens' from the congregation to ensure everyone was awake. The Mass was quite long, lasting about two and a half hours.

During this visit, I had a providential encounter with a boat taxi driver. I discovered he was Catholic, and I gave him and his wife rosaries made by the Legion of Mary. Although he initially declined to come inside, the length of the Mass eventually drew him in, and he ended up witnessing part of the liturgy. I also met a lovely young sister, Sister Judith, to whom I gave rosaries and discussed the Legion of Mary. I believe in planting seeds and trusting God for the harvest.

## The Power of Word and Sacrament

As we observe the fifth Sunday of Lent, I have been reflecting on 'Lent: A Time of Grace' by Pope Francis. In Hebrews 4:12, we are reminded that the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword. Pope Francis explains that God's word operates like a scalpel in our hearts, freeing us from evil. While this process can be painful because it reveals our deceptions and fake excuses, it ultimately purifies us and provides strength and hope.

Complementing the Word is the Eucharist, which nourishes us with the very life of Jesus. Through the Eucharist, the grace of our baptism is continually renewed, and we are joined to the Body of Christ. We are all invited to the Lord's table, where we must learn to look upon others with mercy, recognizing every guest as a fellow follower of Christ.

## Faith and the Raising of Lazarus

The Gospel reading for this Sunday focuses on the raising of Lazarus. Jesus' power over death demonstrates the limitless extent of divine mercy and the possibility of total transformation. While the miracle benefited Lazarus and his sisters, Martha and Mary, Jesus had a greater plan: He wanted the world to believe. 

Lazarus eventually died again, as he was not yet conquering death eternally, but the miracle served as a sign. For those with little faith, miracles are often necessary to believe in God's power. However, we are reminded that even faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. This story encourages us never to give up and to trust that the power of the Holy Spirit can raise us and transfigure us into glorified bodies.

## Devotions and Intercessions

As we enter April, the month of Divine Mercy, I want to emphasize the importance of trusting in God's inexhaustible grace. I have spent time praying the Act of Faith in Divine Mercy, asking for the conversion of sinners and consolation for the sick and suffering.

In our prayers today, we remembered Saint Francis of Paola and offered intentions for the beatification of Servant of God Frank Duff, founder of the Legion of Mary, and Servant of God Adele Quinn. I specifically prayed for the parishioners and the pastor of the Blessed Sacrament parish in Granada, and I offered a heartfelt prayer for my prodigal son, that he may find his way back to the faith and love the Lord again, as there is no more important decision in life than to love God.

*No matter how deep the deception or how final the death, there is no limit to the divine mercy offered to those who are open to God's grace.*