# Third Saturday of Lent: Gospel Reflection and Divine Mercy Chaplet
*2022-03-26*

> Bill Young and John O'Rourke celebrate the third Saturday of Lent with a reading from Luke, a reflection on humility, and a full Divine Mercy chaplet, invoking Mary, the Holy Family, and the Passion of Christ.

## Opening and Context

Bill welcomes listeners to the third Saturday of Lent, noting Pope Francis’ recent consecration of Russia and Ukraine and praying for peace. He introduces John O'Rourke, and together they begin the episode with a brief greeting and a reminder that Saturday is traditionally devoted to Mary.

## Gospel Reading and Reflection

The reading for today is Luke 18:9‑14, the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. Bill summarizes the story: the Pharisee prays boastfully, thanking God that he is not like the sinful tax collector, while the tax collector humbly asks, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” Bill explains that the Pharisee’s prayer is self‑centered, whereas the tax collector’s prayer is directed toward God’s mercy. The lesson is clear: true humility before God, not self‑righteousness, is what the Lord values.

## Opening Prayer and the Our Father

Bill leads an opening prayer invoking the source of life, the font of Divine Mercy, and the blood and water that flow from the Heart of Jesus. He then prays the Our Father, followed by a Hail Mary, asking for the grace of the Lord’s presence.

## The Apostles’ Creed

Bill recites the Apostles’ Creed, affirming belief in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, the incarnation, Passion, resurrection, and the promise of eternal life.

## Divine Mercy Chaplet and Litany of the Holy Family

Bill and John pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, repeating the familiar invocations: “Eternal Father, I offer you the Body and Blood of your beloved Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and for the salvation of the world.” They continue with a series of petitions for mercy on the whole world.

After the chaplet, they move to the Litany of the Holy Family, invoking God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and praising Jesus, Mary, and Joseph as models of humility, obedience, and love. The responses ask for protection, unity, and perseverance in trials.

## Closing Prayer and Blessing

Bill concludes with a prayer asking God to increase His mercy in us, especially in difficult moments, so that we may trust in His holy will of love. He thanks listeners, asks for God’s blessing on the week ahead, and invites everyone to share the Gospel and keep praying the Divine Mercy chaplet.

*True humility before God opens the heart to His boundless mercy.*