Monday 7th April – Monday of the 5^th week of Lent

Reflection: Psalm 23

DISCHARGED AND ACQUITTED

Today, Jesus demonstrates not only His power to forgive sins, but also His power to declare you “not guilty”. If the Lord be your shepherd, then you shall not want. Do you understand what this means? It is not just talking about physical want. Rather, it also means that no one shall lay any charge against you, no one shall condemn you, and that you shall be led by your shepherd into a guilt-free life. This does not automatically rule out the need for repentance and contrition, no, but it further implies that you should believe that God is able set you free from the controlling power of sin and satan’s accusation over your life.

God gave you a conscience, not to make you live a life of depression and guilt; but rather to turn you to the Shepherd of your soul who is able to set you free and lead you to the refreshing waters of His Divine Mercy. How about the woman caught in adultery? Jesus did not condemn her but rather charged her to go and sin no more. Turn to Jesus today, for He is able to lead you through the dark shadows of death, sin, evil, and fear; and bring you to the table of love which He has prepared for you.

Prayer: Thank you Jesus for your saving grace in my life. Please set me free from every form of self-condemnation and accusations of the enemy. I come to you Lord, have mercy on me. Amen.

KNOW YOUR CHURCH: YOUCAT 314: How do we know that God is merciful?

In many passages in Sacred Scripture God shows that He is merciful, especially in the parable of the merciful father (Lk.15) who goes out to meet his prodigal son, accepts him unconditionally, and celebrates his return and their reconciliation with a joyful banquet. [CCC. 1846-1870].”

HIDE A TREASURE: “… Neither do I condemn you; go, do not sin again.” John 8:11 RSV-CE.

Readings for today: Daniel 13:1-9, 15-30, 33-62; Psalm 23; John 8:1-11.