Day 39  -  March 27

Br. Trent Somes, OSL

Reflecting on Rebirth ~ John 11:45–53

On March 27, 2020, those in my county faced a stay-at-home order.  Reflecting on this day, it was difficult for me to process.  I was in despair thinking about what the future may hold, the death of human lives and dreams that seemed inevitable, and selfishly, an end to my college career.  I knew that God was doing something, but it was hard for me to see.

It is easy for us to critique Caiaphas.  How could he reflect on his prophecy and the signs and miss the point?  He gets so close but misses the mark so much that he led the plot to kill Jesus!  How could he not see the rebirth right in front of him?

I can’t answer these questions. I do know that we often do the same thing.  We must reflect on the despair of the past year knowing that God promises a rebirth.  I am not asking you to reflect on the silver lining.  Instead reflect on the rebirth that is right in front of us: the chance to embrace a better church, show the world justice, proclaim unconditional love in a world that offers such a clear contrast, and so much more.

It is easy for us to wait in anticipation for Easter because we know how the story ends.  It is harder for us to reflect on the rebirth of our own time.  As Christians we must keep the apostolic hope, ready to proclaim rebirth even amid tribulation.

Reflection: I invite you to reflect on the rebirth you have experienced this past year.