5th Sunday of Lent Year C – Homily
As we approach a pivotal moment in the Lenten season, the readings—Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126, Philippians 3:8-14, and John 8:1-11—remind us of God’s promise of renewal on the 5th Sunday of Lent Year C – Homily. Fr. Canice Chukwuemeka reflects on this transition from suffering to glory, emphasizing hope and divine mercy.
Isaiah’s prophecy speaks of “new things”, a theme echoed in John’s Gospel, where Jesus offers forgiveness instead of condemnation. This message resonates deeply during this sacred time, inviting us to embrace transformation.
The story of the woman caught in adultery highlights grace over legalism. Jesus’ response—“Let the one without sin cast the first stone”—challenges us to humility and compassion. It’s a call to unbind ourselves from fear and sin, just as Lazarus was freed from death.
Through these scriptures, we see a unifying thread: God’s mercy transforms life. Whether in Isaiah’s promise or Jesus’ acts, the journey from suffering to resurrection glory becomes clear. Let this season inspire perseverance, faith, and spiritual growth.
Another Homily: Fifth Sunday of Lent Homily Year C
Embracing New Beginnings in Isaiah 43:16-21
In times of struggle, Isaiah 43:16-21 reminds us that God specializes in new beginnings. The passage shifts focus from Israel’s Exodus miracles to a fresh promise: “See, I am doing a new thing!” (v. 19). For people feeling stuck, this is an invitation to hope.
God’s Promise to Make a Way
Isaiah’s metaphor of streams in the desert underscores divine provision. Fr. Canice highlights this:
“God doesn’t just clear paths—He creates them where none exist.”
The wilderness, often symbolic ofdeathor despair, becomes a place of unexpected life.
Letting Go of the Past to Embrace Renewal
God’s command to “forget the former things” (v. 18) isn’t about erasing history but releasing its grip. Clinging to past failures—like the Pharisees’ legalism in John 8—blocks spiritual growth. As Haggai 2:9 declares, the future glory outweighs what came before.
Lent mirrors this journey. Repentance isn’t guilt; it’s making space for God’s new work. Just as Jesus forgave the adulterous woman, He invites us to walk forward—unburdened.
The Joy of Restoration in Psalm 126
Psalm 126 paints a vivid picture of sorrow turning into celebration. Its narrative moves from captivity to freedom, mirroring our own spiritual journeys. The psalmist declares, “When the Lord restored Zion, we were like those who dreamed”—a testament to God’s unexpected grace.
From Weeping to Rejoicing
The psalm’s structure reflects a divine rhythm: lament precedes praise. Like seeds sown in tears (v. 5), our suffering often precedes harvest. Fr. Canice echoes this:
“God will put a smile on our faces soon. Easter’s dawn follows Lent’s night.”
This pattern mirrors Psalm 30:5—“weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”
Trusting God’s Faithfulness in Hard Times
Israel’s exile and return illustrate God’s unwavering promise. The desert—symbolizing death and despair—became a place of streams (Isaiah 43:19). Similarly, our trials are fertile ground for restoration.
| Season | Experience | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Sowing | Tears, uncertainty | Trust in divine timing |
| Harvest | Laughter, abundance | Joy beyond measure |
Practical faith means recalling past victories—like Israel’s redemption—to fuel hope today. Small acts of kindness, sown in faith, yield lasting joy.
Pressing Forward with Paul: Philippians 3:8-14
Paul’s letter to the Philippians reshapes our understanding of true worth. He calls believers to measure everything—status, achievements, even suffering—against the surpassing value of knowing Christ. This Lent, his words invite us to reorder our priorities.
Counting Everything as Loss for Christ
Paul’s declaration—“I consider everything rubbish compared to Christ” (v. 8)—challenges modern obsessions with success. His resume was impressive: heritage, zeal, legal perfection. Yet he traded it all for faith in Jesus.
The paradox? Paul found strength in suffering. His Greek term symmorphizō (v. 10) describes union with Christ’s death and resurrection. Like seeds buried to bring life, our trials can deepen dependence on God.
The Unfinished Journey of Faith
Paul’s humility stands out: “Not that I’ve already reached the goal, but I press on” (v. 12). Lent mirrors this—a season to shed distractions and strain toward Easter’s hope.
| Worldly Value | Christ-Centered Priority |
|---|---|
| Self-righteousness | Grace-driven humility |
| Earthly achievements | Eternal future with God |
| Fear of suffering | Joy in sharing Christ’s cross |
Paul’s athletic metaphor (v. 14) urges focus: fix your eyes on the prize. What’s hindering your faith? This week, name one distraction—and take a step toward Christ.
5th Sunday of Lent Year C – Homily: Mercy in the Gospel of John 8:1-11
John’s Gospel presents a powerful moment where grace triumphs over judgment. The story of the woman caught in adultery reveals Jesus’ radical compassion—a stark contrast to the Pharisees’ harsh legalism. Here, mercy isn’t weakness; it’s the heart of divine justice.
Jesus’ Response to the Accusers
The Pharisees sought to trap Jesus by testing His adherence to the Law. Yet His words disarmed them: “Let the one without sin cast the first stone”. Augustine notes this exposed their hypocrisy—Jesus wrote their sin in the dust, not the woman’s.
Their silence speaks volumes. One by one, they left, convicted by their own faults. Jesus’ action reframes justice: it’s about redemption, not retribution.
The Power of “Neither Do I Condemn You”
To the woman, Jesus offers unconditional mercy: “Neither do I condemn you”. This isn’t permission to continue sinning but an invitation to transformation. Augustine explains:
“He condemns the sin, not the sinner—grace demands change.”
Modern parallels abound. Like the Pharisees, society often “stones” others through gossip or cancel culture. Jesus’ model calls us to pause and reflect.
Living the Command to “Sin No More”
Jesus’ final words to the woman—“Go and sin no more”—are a charge, not a dismissal. They echo Isaiah’s promise of new beginnings (Isaiah 43:19). Mercy isn’t cheap; it’s a call to rise.
Her silent acceptance suggests deep reflection. Unlike the Pharisees, she didn’t defend herself. This Lent, we’re invited to similar humility—to receive grace and let it reshape us.
Connecting the Readings: A Call to Transformation –
5th Sunday of Lent Year C – Homily
From Isaiah’s wilderness to Jesus’ compassion, these texts reveal a divine roadmap for change. Isaiah’s promise of streams in the desert (43:19) mirrors Paul’s race toward the prize (Philippians 3:14) and Jesus’ mercy toward the accused woman (John 8:11). Together, they invite us to shed the past and step into God’s future.
“The new Exodus is fulfilled in Jesus’ death and resurrection.”
Just as Israel left bondage, we’re called to abandon sin through Baptism and Confession. These sacraments aren’t rituals—they’re encounters withlife-giving grace.
Paul’s faith journey reminds us: transformation isn’t instant. Like a runner, we strain forward (Philippians 3:13). The adulterous woman’s story shows mercy’s power to redirect a life. What’s your next step—forgiveness? Patience? Trust?
Lent is a microcosm of the Christian journey. From ashes to Easter, we rehearse dying to self and rising in Christ. As Hahn notes, the future glory outweighs present struggles. This sunday lent, ask: Where is God making a way in your wilderness?
Practical Lessons for Lenten Renewal
True renewal begins when we turn reflection into action. This season invites us to move beyond theory and embrace tangible steps toward growth. Here’s how to apply the Sunday’s themes of mercy and transformation.
Forgiving as We Are Forgiven
Jesus’ words to the adulterous woman—“Neither do I condemn you”—model radical forgiveness. Fr. Canice urges:
“Run to Jesus through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Mercy flows when we release grudges.”
Try this 3-step practice:
Reflect: Identify wounds—your own or those you’ve caused others. Write them down as a prayer.
Release: Symbolize letting go. Burn the paper or place it in flowing water.
Restore: Take one reconciling action—a call, letter, or amended habit.
Setting Spiritual Goals for Easter
Like Paul straining toward the prize (Philippians 3:14), Lenten goals give direction. Choose one focus:
Daily Examen: Spend 5 minutes at night reviewing sins and graces. Psalm 126’s imagery of sowing and harvest can guide this meditation.
Volunteer: Serve at a food bank or visit the lonely. Action fuels the way to easter joy.
Sacrament of Reconciliation: Schedule this before Holy Week. Accountability turns “sin no more” from a command to a lifeline.
As Fr. Canice reminds us, renewal isn’t about perfection—it’s progress. What one step will you take this time?
Carrying the Message Beyond the 5th Sunday of Lent
The journey doesn’t end here. Like Paul’s unfinished race, our faith calls us to keep growing. Bishop Barron reminds us: the Church is where “misery meets mercy.” This truth transforms every moment into a chance for renewal.
Form small groups to study Isaiah or Philippians. Shared reflection deepens understanding and builds community. Fr. Canice’s joyful cry—“Shout for joy at God’s marvels!”—becomes real when we celebrate together.
Journal weekly blessings, inspired by Psalm 126. Gratitude turns ordinary days into holy reminders of God’s life-giving grace. As Augustine urged, let Easter find our hearts turned toward the future He prepares.
Mercy changes everything. Carry it forward.
