Rejoice, O Jerusalem! Rejoice over her, all you who love her…
Dear brothers and sisters, Today’s 4th Sunday of Lent has a special character. It is called Laetare, the opening antiphon from the book of the prophet Isaiah: “Rejoice, O Jerusalem…” It is a joyful Sunday in the midst of Lent. The priest may wear a pink vestment—a color that is created by the combination of the purple of penitence and the white of Easter joy. is
The prophet Samuel comes to Bethlehem to anoint a new king. The people expect a strong, high-powered one. But the Lord says, “Manlooks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Sam 16:1b, 6-7. 10-13a). God chooses David—the youngest, overlooked shepherd. This reading reminds us that God sees deeper than people. He does not look at outward appearance, success, or position, but at the heart. How many times do we also judge others only by what we see? And how many times do we feel inadequate? But God sees more – he sees our desire, our faith, and our hidden goodness.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” This psalm today is full of trust. Even though I walk through the dark valley, I will not be afraid. Lent can sometimes be a dark valley—we recognize our weakness, sin, and fragility. But we are not alone. God leads us.
In the second reading (Ephesians 5:8-14), Saint Paul says, “You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord.” This is a strong word. Not only were we in darkness, but also in darkness. Man’s sin darkens. But Christ transforms us into light. And light is meant to shine. Lent is a time when we ask ourselves, “Is my faith dark? Is Christ visible in my life?
In the Gospel of Saint John (John 9:1-41), Jesus heals a man who has been blind from birth. It is not just about physical healing. It is about spiritual sight. The Pharisees see, but they are actually blind. The blind beggar begins to see—first with the eyes of the body, then with the eyes of faith. Jesus says, “I am the light of the world.” This story is an image of each of us. Sometimes we think that we see correctly, that we are right, that we know everything. But without Christ, we are blind to the most important thing.
Let us imagine a person who has lived in a dark room for many years. When someone opens a window and lets in light, the first reaction may be unpleasant—the light hurts the eyes. But it is this light that allows us to see the truth. That is how the Word of God works. Sometimes it will disturb us, show us our weakness, our sin. But only to heal us and bring us joy. What is God saying to us today? Do not look only with the eyes of the flesh; Learn to see with the heart. Do not be afraid of the light of truth; rejoice because God seeks you and guides you. Even in the midst of Lent, the Easter light is already shining. Laetare – rejoice! Not because everything is easy. But because Christ is near. He is the one who enlightens us.
A challenge for us today: Let us ask ourselves, “Where do I need Jesus to open my eyes?” In what area of life do I still live in darkness—in unforgiveness, pride, or indifference? Let us ask Jesus Christ to touch our eyes and our hearts.
Lord Jesus, You are the light of the world. Open our eyes so that we may see the truth about ourselves and about You. Give us a heart that seeks goodness. Lead us through the darkness to the joy of Easter.
