SlideShare uma empresa Scribd logo
1 de 19
Baixar para ler offline
Journey through theJourney through the
Sundays of LentSundays of Lent
University Meeting 2009: Ehab RoufailUniversity Meeting 2009: Ehab Roufail
Based on “Based on “Journey to the Bosom of the Father”Journey to the Bosom of the Father”
By Hegomen Pishoy Kamel   By Hegomen Pishoy Kamel   
OutlineOutline
 The Journey BeginsThe Journey Begins
 Preparation Sunday (Matt. 6:1-8)Preparation Sunday (Matt. 6:1-8)
 Treasuring Sunday (Matt. 6:24-34)Treasuring Sunday (Matt. 6:24-34)
 Temptation Sunday (Matt. 4: 1-10)Temptation Sunday (Matt. 4: 1-10)
 Sunday of the ProdigalSunday of the Prodigal (Luke 15:11-32)(Luke 15:11-32)
 Sunday of the Samaritan (Matt 21:28–32)Sunday of the Samaritan (Matt 21:28–32)
 Sunday of the Paralysed Man (John 4:1-42)Sunday of the Paralysed Man (John 4:1-42)
 Sunday of the Marn Born Blind (Sunday of the Marn Born Blind ( John 5: 1–John 5: 1–
18)18)
The JourneyThe Journey
BeginsBegins
The Journey BeginsThe Journey Begins
 The essence of the fall was prideThe essence of the fall was pride
 This is the essence of the fast, that we crucify this inherentThis is the essence of the fast, that we crucify this inherent
selfishness so that we may love others. For Christ’s love inselfishness so that we may love others. For Christ’s love in
this world is a crucified love.this world is a crucified love.
 It is warfare against the passions.It is warfare against the passions.
 Fasting is to realize that I am limitedFasting is to realize that I am limited
 Fasting is a sign that God is the Source of life and not breadFasting is a sign that God is the Source of life and not bread
 During the fast, there exists a a dual path: one to Christ andDuring the fast, there exists a a dual path: one to Christ and
the other to our fellow brothers and sisters.the other to our fellow brothers and sisters.
The Journey Begins:The Journey Begins:
FastingFasting
Fasting:Fasting:
 The practice of fasting looks to theThe practice of fasting looks to the pastpast,, presentpresent
andand futurefuture::
 ToTo the pastthe past,, as a recognition of offencesas a recognition of offences
committed against God and others;committed against God and others;
 ToTo the presentthe present,, in order that we may learn to openin order that we may learn to open
our eyes to others and to the world around us;our eyes to others and to the world around us;
 ToTo the futurethe future,, in order that we may open ourin order that we may open our
hearts to the realities of God and, by the gift ofhearts to the realities of God and, by the gift of
divine mercy, renew the bond of communion with alldivine mercy, renew the bond of communion with all
people and with the whole of creation, accepting thepeople and with the whole of creation, accepting the
responsibility which each of us has in historyresponsibility which each of us has in history
Preparation Sunday:Preparation Sunday:
Shut your DoorShut your Door
The Point of Departure of the JourneyThe Point of Departure of the Journey
““When you pray enter into your closet,...shut your door, pray to your FatherWhen you pray enter into your closet,...shut your door, pray to your Father
which is in secret....” Also if you give alms or fast that also should be towhich is in secret....” Also if you give alms or fast that also should be to
the Father in secret....the Father in secret....
 The Church declares to us that the closet is the point of departure of theThe Church declares to us that the closet is the point of departure of the
journey of Lent.  If it does not start at the closet then the journey of ourjourney of Lent.  If it does not start at the closet then the journey of our
fast has deviated from its true course. The fact that the Church starts thefast has deviated from its true course. The fact that the Church starts the
fast by directing us to the closet means that the fast is not only related tofast by directing us to the closet means that the fast is not only related to
the flesh but it is related more to the spirit and to Kingdom of God.the flesh but it is related more to the spirit and to Kingdom of God.
Close Your DoorClose Your Door
 The journey starts after closing the door-the door that looks at the world.The journey starts after closing the door-the door that looks at the world.
Then there opens before us another door that faces heaven, “Our fatherThen there opens before us another door that faces heaven, “Our father
who art in heaven”, “I looked, and, behold a door was opened inwho art in heaven”, “I looked, and, behold a door was opened in
heaven.” (Rev 4:1) “Fasting is not a fetter or a prison to the senses but aheaven.” (Rev 4:1) “Fasting is not a fetter or a prison to the senses but a
soaring without hindrance towards contemplation of God.”soaring without hindrance towards contemplation of God.”
Preparation Sunday:Preparation Sunday:
He sees in secretHe sees in secret
Your Father Who Sees in SecretYour Father Who Sees in Secret
 Since the journey is with the soul, it should be done inSince the journey is with the soul, it should be done in
secret. The relationship between the human soul and Christ,secret. The relationship between the human soul and Christ,
is an invisible relationship that begins in the chamber.is an invisible relationship that begins in the chamber.
 So fasting is accompanied by a reduction in talking and visitsSo fasting is accompanied by a reduction in talking and visits
and by concentrating on spiritual readings and attending theand by concentrating on spiritual readings and attending the
Divine Liturgy.Divine Liturgy.
 Our Heavenly Father is calling us to a holy participation withOur Heavenly Father is calling us to a holy participation with
Him in secret, through which we may start our fast, ourHim in secret, through which we may start our fast, our
prayers, and our almsgivings. prayers, and our almsgivings. 
 So we need to beware of negligence.So we need to beware of negligence.
Practice: The practice in the week of preparation is thePractice: The practice in the week of preparation is the
prayer of the chamber and the worship in secret which willprayer of the chamber and the worship in secret which will
continue with us all through after the period of fasting.continue with us all through after the period of fasting.
Treasuring Sunday:Treasuring Sunday:
SurrenderSurrender
SurrenderSurrender of Life to the Heavenly Father: (Matt.of Life to the Heavenly Father: (Matt.
6:24-34)6:24-34)
The gospel of the first Sunday of Lent calls for theThe gospel of the first Sunday of Lent calls for the
surrender of life to the Father.surrender of life to the Father.
““Take no thought for your life, what you shall eat...norTake no thought for your life, what you shall eat...nor
yet for the body, what you shall wear....do not worryyet for the body, what you shall wear....do not worry
about tomorrow.” The reason for not worrying is thatabout tomorrow.” The reason for not worrying is that
“your heavenly Father knows that you have of all“your heavenly Father knows that you have of all
these things.” (Matt. 6:32).these things.” (Matt. 6:32).
 The practice of this week is a call to a secure life inThe practice of this week is a call to a secure life in
the care of the Father and the carrying out of whatthe care of the Father and the carrying out of what
comes in the verse, “Do not worry about tomorrow,”comes in the verse, “Do not worry about tomorrow,”
physically, mentally and spiritually.physically, mentally and spiritually.
Treasuring Sunday:Treasuring Sunday:
AssuranceAssurance
The Christian commandment is full of risks but itsThe Christian commandment is full of risks but its
assuranceassurance is the care of the Father. is the care of the Father. 
 The woman who gave the two mites was risking herThe woman who gave the two mites was risking her
meal. During the fast, Satan wages his war bymeal. During the fast, Satan wages his war by
convincing us that we are risking the necessities ofconvincing us that we are risking the necessities of
the body and causes us to worry about our health.the body and causes us to worry about our health.
Likewise, in charity, there is a risk of wealth.Likewise, in charity, there is a risk of wealth.
 In this week, we experience the complete surrenderIn this week, we experience the complete surrender
to the care of the Father and to His commandment.to the care of the Father and to His commandment.
Temptation Sunday:Temptation Sunday:
Don’t doubt hisDon’t doubt his
FatherhoodFatherhood
Why does God forget us if He is our Father? (Matt. 4: 1-10)Why does God forget us if He is our Father? (Matt. 4: 1-10)
The gospel of the Second Sunday deals with the temptation ofThe gospel of the Second Sunday deals with the temptation of
doubting God’s paternity to us,doubting God’s paternity to us,
““If you are the son of God-why does He leave you hungry?If you are the son of God-why does He leave you hungry?
Why does God allow the presence of disease, failure and theWhy does God allow the presence of disease, failure and the
death of our beloved?”death of our beloved?”
 Practice: It is our duty this week to examine our faith in thePractice: It is our duty this week to examine our faith in the
love of the Father who gave His Son for us. love of the Father who gave His Son for us. 
 Our faith should surpass all temptations and emotions.  FaithOur faith should surpass all temptations and emotions.  Faith
in the Father should be a faith that fortifies us against thein the Father should be a faith that fortifies us against the
temptation of the Adversary, the hardships of this world andtemptation of the Adversary, the hardships of this world and
the sufferings and desires of the body.the sufferings and desires of the body.
Sunday of theSunday of the
Prodigal: RepentanceProdigal: Repentance
Repentance in the Father’s bosom (Luke 15:11-32)Repentance in the Father’s bosom (Luke 15:11-32)
 Repentance in Christianity is different from anyRepentance in Christianity is different from any
other repentance; it is the return of the son to hisother repentance; it is the return of the son to his
Father and the Father running to fall on the neck ofFather and the Father running to fall on the neck of
His son to embrace him and kiss him (Luke 15:20).His son to embrace him and kiss him (Luke 15:20).
This is the gospel of the third Sunday.This is the gospel of the third Sunday.
 The Father’s paternity to us is not because of ourThe Father’s paternity to us is not because of our
righteousness, but because of His paternity to hisrighteousness, but because of His paternity to his
children, especially the sinners.children, especially the sinners.
 The Father’s paternity for us challenges all our sins,The Father’s paternity for us challenges all our sins,
our failures, our betrayal of His love and ourour failures, our betrayal of His love and our
mistreatment of His name.mistreatment of His name.
Sunday of theSunday of the
Prodigal: Repent withProdigal: Repent with
HimHim
 Practice: Let’s not permit this week to go byPractice: Let’s not permit this week to go by
without true repentance and resorting to thewithout true repentance and resorting to the
Father’s embrace....Examine this in yourFather’s embrace....Examine this in your
chamber and taste the Father’s embrace andchamber and taste the Father’s embrace and
His kisses which are reserved only for thoseHis kisses which are reserved only for those
who repent. This is the week of repentance inwho repent. This is the week of repentance in
the Father’s bosom, the repentance of thethe Father’s bosom, the repentance of the
whole Church...the communal repentance.whole Church...the communal repentance.
Sunday of theSunday of the
Samaritan: WorshipSamaritan: Worship
Worship of the Father in Spirit and in Truth (John 4:1-Worship of the Father in Spirit and in Truth (John 4:1-
42)42)
 The next step after repentance is worship of theThe next step after repentance is worship of the
Father Who accepted and loved me and cleansedFather Who accepted and loved me and cleansed
me from my sins and put me in His bosom. me from my sins and put me in His bosom. 
Contrition of the spirit and submission to the FatherContrition of the spirit and submission to the Father
and the love of frequent prostrations in worship areand the love of frequent prostrations in worship are
the expressions of our love for Him who opened Histhe expressions of our love for Him who opened His
arms for us sinners and kissed us. This is the end ofarms for us sinners and kissed us. This is the end of
the road of repentance in the Father’s bosom, andthe road of repentance in the Father’s bosom, and
this is the sweetest fruit of the chamber and whichthis is the sweetest fruit of the chamber and which
the Father gives us in secret.the Father gives us in secret.
Sunday of theSunday of the
Samaritan: WorshipSamaritan: Worship
 The Church, inspired by the Spirit, stresses inThe Church, inspired by the Spirit, stresses in
the period of Lent the use of prostrationsthe period of Lent the use of prostrations
during private prayers and in the Divineduring private prayers and in the Divine
Liturgy (At the Offering of Incense after theLiturgy (At the Offering of Incense after the
readings of the prophets).readings of the prophets).
 The practice of this week is to worship theThe practice of this week is to worship the
Father in spirit and truth “for such the FatherFather in spirit and truth “for such the Father
seeks to worship Him.” (John 4:23)seeks to worship Him.” (John 4:23)
Sunday of theSunday of the
Paralysed Man:Paralysed Man:
RenewalRenewal
 Bethesda and Baptism (John 5:1-18)Bethesda and Baptism (John 5:1-18)
 The Gospel of the fifth Sunday talks aboutThe Gospel of the fifth Sunday talks about
Bethesda which symbolizes Baptism. We, theBethesda which symbolizes Baptism. We, the
crowds of Christians, were beside it sick,crowds of Christians, were beside it sick,
lame, blind and paralyzed; suffering everylame, blind and paralyzed; suffering every
spiritual sickness. The Angel that moves thespiritual sickness. The Angel that moves the
water symbolizes the Holy Spirit whichwater symbolizes the Holy Spirit which
comes down on the water of Baptism.comes down on the water of Baptism.
Sunday of theSunday of the
Paralysed Man: Don’tParalysed Man: Don’t
DespairDespair
 This is our share in Christ: those who areThis is our share in Christ: those who are
baptized are ever in the Father even if theybaptized are ever in the Father even if they
have been sick for 38 years.have been sick for 38 years.
 The practice of this week is to hope andThe practice of this week is to hope and
never to despair—‎Baptism has given us thenever to despair—‎Baptism has given us the
grace of adoption and children are nevergrace of adoption and children are never
disappointed in their hopes in the love of thedisappointed in their hopes in the love of the
Father.Father.
Sunday of the ManSunday of the Man
Born Blind:Born Blind:
EnlightenmentEnlightenment
 Sonship is a Spiritual Enlightenment (John 9:1-41)Sonship is a Spiritual Enlightenment (John 9:1-41)
 The last Sunday in Lent is the Sunday of Baptism,The last Sunday in Lent is the Sunday of Baptism,
during which we read the gospel of the man bornduring which we read the gospel of the man born
blind.blind.
  “ “I was blind and now I see.” This is our everlastingI was blind and now I see.” This is our everlasting
experience as children of the Heavenly Father. Weexperience as children of the Heavenly Father. We
were blind and He opened our sight so we beheldwere blind and He opened our sight so we beheld
miracles of His laws and we saw what the prophetsmiracles of His laws and we saw what the prophets
longed to see, and He gave us understanding of thelonged to see, and He gave us understanding of the
Scriptures.Scriptures.
Sunday of the ManSunday of the Man
Born Blind:Born Blind:
EnlightenmentEnlightenment
 Baptism means washing (in the pool of Siloam), soBaptism means washing (in the pool of Siloam), so
we become pure.we become pure.
 Repentance is a continuous washing, so we mayRepentance is a continuous washing, so we may
see clearly. Repentance is a continuation ofsee clearly. Repentance is a continuation of
Baptism and it is the means through which we canBaptism and it is the means through which we can
see Christ clearly all our life.see Christ clearly all our life.
 Lasting repentance cleans our heart, renews theLasting repentance cleans our heart, renews the
intellect, protects the contrite soul in the obedienceintellect, protects the contrite soul in the obedience
of the Father, and through repentance, we canof the Father, and through repentance, we can
discover all the graces and secrets of the Heavenlydiscover all the graces and secrets of the Heavenly
Father.Father.
Never to late to beginNever to late to begin
the Journeythe Journey
 If we that the Lord is not our treasure – it is not tooIf we that the Lord is not our treasure – it is not too
late to start.late to start.
 If we feel tempted and far from the Lord – it is not tooIf we feel tempted and far from the Lord – it is not too
late to turn to Him in our need.late to turn to Him in our need.
 If we feel lonely and lost in our sin, having separatedIf we feel lonely and lost in our sin, having separated
ourselves from the Church as the Samaritan womanourselves from the Church as the Samaritan woman
– let us come to the Lord to drink His living water.– let us come to the Lord to drink His living water.
 If we have been long in sin as much as 38 years,If we have been long in sin as much as 38 years,
focusing on our own power – it is not too late look tofocusing on our own power – it is not too late look to
Him standing next to us and accept His healing.Him standing next to us and accept His healing.
Never to late to beginNever to late to begin
the Journeythe Journey
 If we have been born blind, our eyes shut to theIf we have been born blind, our eyes shut to the
Glory of God – it is not too late to let Him touch andGlory of God – it is not too late to let Him touch and
create new eyescreate new eyes
 If we are dead and our stench is obvious to allIf we are dead and our stench is obvious to all
around – He calls us to arise and come fortharound – He calls us to arise and come forth
 Let us ask and begin wherever we areLet us ask and begin wherever we are

Mais conteúdo relacionado

Mais procurados

Revelation 2:8-11 Smyrna-Suffering Yet Steadfast
Revelation 2:8-11 Smyrna-Suffering Yet SteadfastRevelation 2:8-11 Smyrna-Suffering Yet Steadfast
Revelation 2:8-11 Smyrna-Suffering Yet SteadfastDr. Rick Griffith
 
An Introduction to Biblical Interpretation (Effective Bible Study)
An Introduction to Biblical Interpretation (Effective Bible Study)An Introduction to Biblical Interpretation (Effective Bible Study)
An Introduction to Biblical Interpretation (Effective Bible Study)roberthatfield
 
Apostolic Trinity
Apostolic TrinityApostolic Trinity
Apostolic Trinitygeorgecduke
 
Kasih karunia Allah bagi manusia
Kasih karunia Allah bagi manusiaKasih karunia Allah bagi manusia
Kasih karunia Allah bagi manusiaJBC
 
The Nature of Saving FAITH
The Nature of Saving FAITHThe Nature of Saving FAITH
The Nature of Saving FAITHDon McClain
 
The Doctrine of Salvation
The Doctrine of SalvationThe Doctrine of Salvation
The Doctrine of SalvationAustin DeArmond
 
12 last things
12 last things12 last things
12 last thingschucho1943
 
Book Of Revelation
Book Of RevelationBook Of Revelation
Book Of RevelationJoy Joseph
 
Christology [Catholic Basics]
Christology [Catholic Basics]Christology [Catholic Basics]
Christology [Catholic Basics]Loyola Press
 
Who Is Jesus Christ
Who Is Jesus ChristWho Is Jesus Christ
Who Is Jesus Christgospeltruth
 
11 last days events
11 last days events11 last days events
11 last days eventschucho1943
 
Katamu Siapakah Aku Ini?
Katamu Siapakah Aku Ini?Katamu Siapakah Aku Ini?
Katamu Siapakah Aku Ini?Johan Setiawan
 

Mais procurados (20)

Revelation 2:8-11 Smyrna-Suffering Yet Steadfast
Revelation 2:8-11 Smyrna-Suffering Yet SteadfastRevelation 2:8-11 Smyrna-Suffering Yet Steadfast
Revelation 2:8-11 Smyrna-Suffering Yet Steadfast
 
An Introduction to Biblical Interpretation (Effective Bible Study)
An Introduction to Biblical Interpretation (Effective Bible Study)An Introduction to Biblical Interpretation (Effective Bible Study)
An Introduction to Biblical Interpretation (Effective Bible Study)
 
Apostolic Trinity
Apostolic TrinityApostolic Trinity
Apostolic Trinity
 
Kasih karunia Allah bagi manusia
Kasih karunia Allah bagi manusiaKasih karunia Allah bagi manusia
Kasih karunia Allah bagi manusia
 
The Nature of Saving FAITH
The Nature of Saving FAITHThe Nature of Saving FAITH
The Nature of Saving FAITH
 
The Genesis of Grace
The Genesis of GraceThe Genesis of Grace
The Genesis of Grace
 
The resurrection of jesus
The resurrection of jesusThe resurrection of jesus
The resurrection of jesus
 
The Doctrine of Salvation
The Doctrine of SalvationThe Doctrine of Salvation
The Doctrine of Salvation
 
Salvation
SalvationSalvation
Salvation
 
12 last things
12 last things12 last things
12 last things
 
Book Of Revelation
Book Of RevelationBook Of Revelation
Book Of Revelation
 
The Book of Jonah
The Book of JonahThe Book of Jonah
The Book of Jonah
 
Gospel of John
Gospel of JohnGospel of John
Gospel of John
 
Christology [Catholic Basics]
Christology [Catholic Basics]Christology [Catholic Basics]
Christology [Catholic Basics]
 
Disciple-Making
Disciple-MakingDisciple-Making
Disciple-Making
 
Who Is Jesus Christ
Who Is Jesus ChristWho Is Jesus Christ
Who Is Jesus Christ
 
Pentecost
PentecostPentecost
Pentecost
 
The Book of Luke
The Book of LukeThe Book of Luke
The Book of Luke
 
11 last days events
11 last days events11 last days events
11 last days events
 
Katamu Siapakah Aku Ini?
Katamu Siapakah Aku Ini?Katamu Siapakah Aku Ini?
Katamu Siapakah Aku Ini?
 

Destaque (20)

Contemplations on the Passion week Coptic rite
Contemplations on the Passion week Coptic riteContemplations on the Passion week Coptic rite
Contemplations on the Passion week Coptic rite
 
Lent Christianity
Lent Christianity Lent Christianity
Lent Christianity
 
Liturgical Season Of Lent
Liturgical  Season Of LentLiturgical  Season Of Lent
Liturgical Season Of Lent
 
Ash Wednesday
Ash WednesdayAsh Wednesday
Ash Wednesday
 
The mystery of the eucharist
The mystery of the eucharistThe mystery of the eucharist
The mystery of the eucharist
 
What is Lent?
What is Lent?What is Lent?
What is Lent?
 
The season of Lent
The season of LentThe season of Lent
The season of Lent
 
Why did god create sex?
Why did god create sex?Why did god create sex?
Why did god create sex?
 
Seminario #SocialMediaMarketing
Seminario #SocialMediaMarketingSeminario #SocialMediaMarketing
Seminario #SocialMediaMarketing
 
Houses & homes
Houses  & homesHouses  & homes
Houses & homes
 
Living Eggs
Living EggsLiving Eggs
Living Eggs
 
Eggs
EggsEggs
Eggs
 
Oportunidade 6 estrelas Monavie
Oportunidade 6 estrelas MonavieOportunidade 6 estrelas Monavie
Oportunidade 6 estrelas Monavie
 
Birth of chicks
Birth of chicksBirth of chicks
Birth of chicks
 
For My Birthday in Spirit: July 3 (Baptism in Faith)
For My Birthday in Spirit: July 3 (Baptism in Faith)For My Birthday in Spirit: July 3 (Baptism in Faith)
For My Birthday in Spirit: July 3 (Baptism in Faith)
 
Cad Egg Farm Business Proposal
Cad Egg Farm Business ProposalCad Egg Farm Business Proposal
Cad Egg Farm Business Proposal
 
Zacchaeus
ZacchaeusZacchaeus
Zacchaeus
 
Zacchaeus
ZacchaeusZacchaeus
Zacchaeus
 
Intimacy With Jesus Part 4, Jesus Our Foundation
Intimacy With Jesus Part 4, Jesus Our FoundationIntimacy With Jesus Part 4, Jesus Our Foundation
Intimacy With Jesus Part 4, Jesus Our Foundation
 
Abnormalities in hatching chicks
Abnormalities in hatching chicksAbnormalities in hatching chicks
Abnormalities in hatching chicks
 

Semelhante a Journey through the Sundays of Lent

Baptismalpreparation
BaptismalpreparationBaptismalpreparation
Baptismalpreparationrluzacmf
 
The Holy Spirted
The Holy SpirtedThe Holy Spirted
The Holy SpirtedTammy Lacy
 
Sun27 Dec2009 Annual Rpt09-10
Sun27 Dec2009 Annual Rpt09-10Sun27 Dec2009 Annual Rpt09-10
Sun27 Dec2009 Annual Rpt09-10i12know
 
Elementary Teachings about Christ
Elementary Teachings about ChristElementary Teachings about Christ
Elementary Teachings about ChristPrason S
 
Acts 8:1-25 Persecution and Baptism
Acts 8:1-25 Persecution and BaptismActs 8:1-25 Persecution and Baptism
Acts 8:1-25 Persecution and BaptismTye Riter
 
THE PATISM Of The HOLY SPIRIT
THE PATISM Of The HOLY SPIRITTHE PATISM Of The HOLY SPIRIT
THE PATISM Of The HOLY SPIRITLaura Smith
 
Teaching children-to-pray
Teaching children-to-prayTeaching children-to-pray
Teaching children-to-prayMann Rentoy
 
Pre Encounter Lesson 3: Born Again
Pre Encounter Lesson 3: Born AgainPre Encounter Lesson 3: Born Again
Pre Encounter Lesson 3: Born AgainRhea Deligero
 
The Spirit of Nazareth - Session #12
The Spirit of Nazareth - Session #12The Spirit of Nazareth - Session #12
The Spirit of Nazareth - Session #12PDEI
 
BRUNER_missionarytotheAMAZON
BRUNER_missionarytotheAMAZONBRUNER_missionarytotheAMAZON
BRUNER_missionarytotheAMAZONZach Bruner
 
The Bridge August 2014
The Bridge August 2014The Bridge August 2014
The Bridge August 2014Natasha Burris
 
5 FACTORS OF SUCCESSFUL CHURCH.pptx
5 FACTORS OF SUCCESSFUL CHURCH.pptx5 FACTORS OF SUCCESSFUL CHURCH.pptx
5 FACTORS OF SUCCESSFUL CHURCH.pptxTebalo1
 
Colossians 3'15 17 - being thanksgiving 2
Colossians 3'15 17 - being thanksgiving 2Colossians 3'15 17 - being thanksgiving 2
Colossians 3'15 17 - being thanksgiving 2CrosspointePCA
 
Wheres_Jesus_in_Exodus_part1_Patterns_in_Exodus
Wheres_Jesus_in_Exodus_part1_Patterns_in_ExodusWheres_Jesus_in_Exodus_part1_Patterns_in_Exodus
Wheres_Jesus_in_Exodus_part1_Patterns_in_ExodusNetwork Bible Fellowship
 
Walking in the holy spirit
Walking in the holy spiritWalking in the holy spirit
Walking in the holy spiritGLENN PEASE
 
05-06-18, 2 Corinthians 4;1-18, Why Christians Should Not Give Up
05-06-18, 2 Corinthians 4;1-18, Why Christians Should Not Give Up05-06-18, 2 Corinthians 4;1-18, Why Christians Should Not Give Up
05-06-18, 2 Corinthians 4;1-18, Why Christians Should Not Give UpFirst Baptist Church Jackson
 

Semelhante a Journey through the Sundays of Lent (20)

The 3 P's of Baptism
The 3 P's of BaptismThe 3 P's of Baptism
The 3 P's of Baptism
 
Baptismalpreparation
BaptismalpreparationBaptismalpreparation
Baptismalpreparation
 
The Holy Spirted
The Holy SpirtedThe Holy Spirted
The Holy Spirted
 
Sun27 Dec2009 Annual Rpt09-10
Sun27 Dec2009 Annual Rpt09-10Sun27 Dec2009 Annual Rpt09-10
Sun27 Dec2009 Annual Rpt09-10
 
Elementary Teachings about Christ
Elementary Teachings about ChristElementary Teachings about Christ
Elementary Teachings about Christ
 
Acts 8:1-25 Persecution and Baptism
Acts 8:1-25 Persecution and BaptismActs 8:1-25 Persecution and Baptism
Acts 8:1-25 Persecution and Baptism
 
THE PATISM Of The HOLY SPIRIT
THE PATISM Of The HOLY SPIRITTHE PATISM Of The HOLY SPIRIT
THE PATISM Of The HOLY SPIRIT
 
Teaching children-to-pray
Teaching children-to-prayTeaching children-to-pray
Teaching children-to-pray
 
SEATS School of Ministry 01 01 Worldview 1 2
SEATS School of Ministry 01 01  Worldview 1  2SEATS School of Ministry 01 01  Worldview 1  2
SEATS School of Ministry 01 01 Worldview 1 2
 
Pre Encounter Lesson 3: Born Again
Pre Encounter Lesson 3: Born AgainPre Encounter Lesson 3: Born Again
Pre Encounter Lesson 3: Born Again
 
The Spirit of Nazareth - Session #12
The Spirit of Nazareth - Session #12The Spirit of Nazareth - Session #12
The Spirit of Nazareth - Session #12
 
BRUNER_missionarytotheAMAZON
BRUNER_missionarytotheAMAZONBRUNER_missionarytotheAMAZON
BRUNER_missionarytotheAMAZON
 
03 March 4, 2012 Philippians, Chapter 3 Verse 10
03 March 4, 2012 Philippians, Chapter 3  Verse 1003 March 4, 2012 Philippians, Chapter 3  Verse 10
03 March 4, 2012 Philippians, Chapter 3 Verse 10
 
The Bridge August 2014
The Bridge August 2014The Bridge August 2014
The Bridge August 2014
 
5 FACTORS OF SUCCESSFUL CHURCH.pptx
5 FACTORS OF SUCCESSFUL CHURCH.pptx5 FACTORS OF SUCCESSFUL CHURCH.pptx
5 FACTORS OF SUCCESSFUL CHURCH.pptx
 
Colossians 3'15 17 - being thanksgiving 2
Colossians 3'15 17 - being thanksgiving 2Colossians 3'15 17 - being thanksgiving 2
Colossians 3'15 17 - being thanksgiving 2
 
The Way of Purity
The Way of PurityThe Way of Purity
The Way of Purity
 
Wheres_Jesus_in_Exodus_part1_Patterns_in_Exodus
Wheres_Jesus_in_Exodus_part1_Patterns_in_ExodusWheres_Jesus_in_Exodus_part1_Patterns_in_Exodus
Wheres_Jesus_in_Exodus_part1_Patterns_in_Exodus
 
Walking in the holy spirit
Walking in the holy spiritWalking in the holy spirit
Walking in the holy spirit
 
05-06-18, 2 Corinthians 4;1-18, Why Christians Should Not Give Up
05-06-18, 2 Corinthians 4;1-18, Why Christians Should Not Give Up05-06-18, 2 Corinthians 4;1-18, Why Christians Should Not Give Up
05-06-18, 2 Corinthians 4;1-18, Why Christians Should Not Give Up
 

Mais de Ehab Roufail

Understanding Grace - Blood Covenant and Prodigal.pdf
Understanding Grace - Blood Covenant and Prodigal.pdfUnderstanding Grace - Blood Covenant and Prodigal.pdf
Understanding Grace - Blood Covenant and Prodigal.pdfEhab Roufail
 
Men and women roles in the church
Men and women roles in the churchMen and women roles in the church
Men and women roles in the churchEhab Roufail
 
The Existence of God
The Existence of GodThe Existence of God
The Existence of GodEhab Roufail
 
The moral argument
The moral argumentThe moral argument
The moral argumentEhab Roufail
 
The reliability of the bible
The reliability of the bibleThe reliability of the bible
The reliability of the bibleEhab Roufail
 
Prophecy fullfilment
Prophecy fullfilmentProphecy fullfilment
Prophecy fullfilmentEhab Roufail
 
The God of the OT and New
The God of the OT and NewThe God of the OT and New
The God of the OT and NewEhab Roufail
 
Why is there so much suffering
Why is there so much sufferingWhy is there so much suffering
Why is there so much sufferingEhab Roufail
 
The helmet of salvation only
The helmet of salvation   onlyThe helmet of salvation   only
The helmet of salvation onlyEhab Roufail
 
Dealing with challenges at work
Dealing with challenges at workDealing with challenges at work
Dealing with challenges at workEhab Roufail
 
What's so special about christmas
What's so special about christmasWhat's so special about christmas
What's so special about christmasEhab Roufail
 
Enterprise Agile Delivery v3
Enterprise Agile Delivery v3Enterprise Agile Delivery v3
Enterprise Agile Delivery v3Ehab Roufail
 
St. Paul the Apostle
St. Paul the ApostleSt. Paul the Apostle
St. Paul the ApostleEhab Roufail
 
The first epistle of John
The first epistle of JohnThe first epistle of John
The first epistle of JohnEhab Roufail
 

Mais de Ehab Roufail (20)

Understanding Grace - Blood Covenant and Prodigal.pdf
Understanding Grace - Blood Covenant and Prodigal.pdfUnderstanding Grace - Blood Covenant and Prodigal.pdf
Understanding Grace - Blood Covenant and Prodigal.pdf
 
Men and women roles in the church
Men and women roles in the churchMen and women roles in the church
Men and women roles in the church
 
The Existence of God
The Existence of GodThe Existence of God
The Existence of God
 
The moral argument
The moral argumentThe moral argument
The moral argument
 
The reliability of the bible
The reliability of the bibleThe reliability of the bible
The reliability of the bible
 
Prophecy fullfilment
Prophecy fullfilmentProphecy fullfilment
Prophecy fullfilment
 
Led by the spirit
Led by the spiritLed by the spirit
Led by the spirit
 
Why a messiah
Why a messiahWhy a messiah
Why a messiah
 
Revelation
RevelationRevelation
Revelation
 
Christian dating
Christian datingChristian dating
Christian dating
 
The God of the OT and New
The God of the OT and NewThe God of the OT and New
The God of the OT and New
 
Why is there so much suffering
Why is there so much sufferingWhy is there so much suffering
Why is there so much suffering
 
The helmet of salvation only
The helmet of salvation   onlyThe helmet of salvation   only
The helmet of salvation only
 
Dealing with challenges at work
Dealing with challenges at workDealing with challenges at work
Dealing with challenges at work
 
What's so special about christmas
What's so special about christmasWhat's so special about christmas
What's so special about christmas
 
Fast of advent
Fast of adventFast of advent
Fast of advent
 
Enterprise Agile Delivery v3
Enterprise Agile Delivery v3Enterprise Agile Delivery v3
Enterprise Agile Delivery v3
 
St. Paul the Apostle
St. Paul the ApostleSt. Paul the Apostle
St. Paul the Apostle
 
The one i love
The one i loveThe one i love
The one i love
 
The first epistle of John
The first epistle of JohnThe first epistle of John
The first epistle of John
 

Último

DP & Jesus Marriage - 2 potential candidates
DP & Jesus Marriage - 2 potential candidatesDP & Jesus Marriage - 2 potential candidates
DP & Jesus Marriage - 2 potential candidatesBengt & Maarit de Paulis
 
DP & Nostradamus-Fatima-Bailey-Branham-Ford - Short vers
DP & Nostradamus-Fatima-Bailey-Branham-Ford - Short versDP & Nostradamus-Fatima-Bailey-Branham-Ford - Short vers
DP & Nostradamus-Fatima-Bailey-Branham-Ford - Short versBengt & Maarit de Paulis
 
The_Chronological_Life_of_Christ_Part_93_Fear God
The_Chronological_Life_of_Christ_Part_93_Fear GodThe_Chronological_Life_of_Christ_Part_93_Fear God
The_Chronological_Life_of_Christ_Part_93_Fear GodNetwork Bible Fellowship
 
Old Age but fruitful and meaningful.pptx
Old Age but fruitful and meaningful.pptxOld Age but fruitful and meaningful.pptx
Old Age but fruitful and meaningful.pptxInnovator Marbun
 
The Mormon & Quaker Moons of Lancashire: Stories of Religious Conversion & Mi...
The Mormon & Quaker Moons of Lancashire: Stories of Religious Conversion & Mi...The Mormon & Quaker Moons of Lancashire: Stories of Religious Conversion & Mi...
The Mormon & Quaker Moons of Lancashire: Stories of Religious Conversion & Mi...Cometan
 
Free eBook ~Short Inspirational Stories - The Benefits.pdf
Free eBook ~Short Inspirational Stories - The Benefits.pdfFree eBook ~Short Inspirational Stories - The Benefits.pdf
Free eBook ~Short Inspirational Stories - The Benefits.pdfOH TEIK BIN
 
All About Zakah for Muslim Americans - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidance...
All About Zakah for Muslim Americans - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidance...All About Zakah for Muslim Americans - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidance...
All About Zakah for Muslim Americans - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidance...iqra tube
 
Deerfoot Church of Christ Bulletin 3 24 24
Deerfoot Church of Christ Bulletin 3 24 24Deerfoot Church of Christ Bulletin 3 24 24
Deerfoot Church of Christ Bulletin 3 24 24deerfootcoc
 
Islamic Finance 101 - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidancecollege.org/]
Islamic Finance 101 - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidancecollege.org/]Islamic Finance 101 - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidancecollege.org/]
Islamic Finance 101 - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidancecollege.org/]iqra tube
 
SERPENT COIL: THE AWAKENING OF KUNDALINI
SERPENT COIL: THE AWAKENING OF KUNDALINISERPENT COIL: THE AWAKENING OF KUNDALINI
SERPENT COIL: THE AWAKENING OF KUNDALINISantanu Das
 
365 Days of Thanking God_ Cultivating a Heart of Thanksgiving Everyday (Revis...
365 Days of Thanking God_ Cultivating a Heart of Thanksgiving Everyday (Revis...365 Days of Thanking God_ Cultivating a Heart of Thanksgiving Everyday (Revis...
365 Days of Thanking God_ Cultivating a Heart of Thanksgiving Everyday (Revis...Eizijesu Obahaiye
 
Easter Apocalypse_Palm Sunday_Rev. 7.pptx
Easter Apocalypse_Palm Sunday_Rev. 7.pptxEaster Apocalypse_Palm Sunday_Rev. 7.pptx
Easter Apocalypse_Palm Sunday_Rev. 7.pptxStephen Palm
 

Último (13)

DP & Jesus Marriage - 2 potential candidates
DP & Jesus Marriage - 2 potential candidatesDP & Jesus Marriage - 2 potential candidates
DP & Jesus Marriage - 2 potential candidates
 
DP & Nostradamus-Fatima-Bailey-Branham-Ford - Short vers
DP & Nostradamus-Fatima-Bailey-Branham-Ford - Short versDP & Nostradamus-Fatima-Bailey-Branham-Ford - Short vers
DP & Nostradamus-Fatima-Bailey-Branham-Ford - Short vers
 
The_Chronological_Life_of_Christ_Part_93_Fear God
The_Chronological_Life_of_Christ_Part_93_Fear GodThe_Chronological_Life_of_Christ_Part_93_Fear God
The_Chronological_Life_of_Christ_Part_93_Fear God
 
Old Age but fruitful and meaningful.pptx
Old Age but fruitful and meaningful.pptxOld Age but fruitful and meaningful.pptx
Old Age but fruitful and meaningful.pptx
 
The Mormon & Quaker Moons of Lancashire: Stories of Religious Conversion & Mi...
The Mormon & Quaker Moons of Lancashire: Stories of Religious Conversion & Mi...The Mormon & Quaker Moons of Lancashire: Stories of Religious Conversion & Mi...
The Mormon & Quaker Moons of Lancashire: Stories of Religious Conversion & Mi...
 
Free eBook ~Short Inspirational Stories - The Benefits.pdf
Free eBook ~Short Inspirational Stories - The Benefits.pdfFree eBook ~Short Inspirational Stories - The Benefits.pdf
Free eBook ~Short Inspirational Stories - The Benefits.pdf
 
All About Zakah for Muslim Americans - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidance...
All About Zakah for Muslim Americans - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidance...All About Zakah for Muslim Americans - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidance...
All About Zakah for Muslim Americans - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidance...
 
Deerfoot Church of Christ Bulletin 3 24 24
Deerfoot Church of Christ Bulletin 3 24 24Deerfoot Church of Christ Bulletin 3 24 24
Deerfoot Church of Christ Bulletin 3 24 24
 
English - The 1st Book of Adam and Eve.pdf
English - The 1st Book of Adam and Eve.pdfEnglish - The 1st Book of Adam and Eve.pdf
English - The 1st Book of Adam and Eve.pdf
 
Islamic Finance 101 - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidancecollege.org/]
Islamic Finance 101 - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidancecollege.org/]Islamic Finance 101 - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidancecollege.org/]
Islamic Finance 101 - Dr. Main Alqudah [https://www.guidancecollege.org/]
 
SERPENT COIL: THE AWAKENING OF KUNDALINI
SERPENT COIL: THE AWAKENING OF KUNDALINISERPENT COIL: THE AWAKENING OF KUNDALINI
SERPENT COIL: THE AWAKENING OF KUNDALINI
 
365 Days of Thanking God_ Cultivating a Heart of Thanksgiving Everyday (Revis...
365 Days of Thanking God_ Cultivating a Heart of Thanksgiving Everyday (Revis...365 Days of Thanking God_ Cultivating a Heart of Thanksgiving Everyday (Revis...
365 Days of Thanking God_ Cultivating a Heart of Thanksgiving Everyday (Revis...
 
Easter Apocalypse_Palm Sunday_Rev. 7.pptx
Easter Apocalypse_Palm Sunday_Rev. 7.pptxEaster Apocalypse_Palm Sunday_Rev. 7.pptx
Easter Apocalypse_Palm Sunday_Rev. 7.pptx
 

Journey through the Sundays of Lent

  • 1. Journey through theJourney through the Sundays of LentSundays of Lent University Meeting 2009: Ehab RoufailUniversity Meeting 2009: Ehab Roufail Based on “Based on “Journey to the Bosom of the Father”Journey to the Bosom of the Father” By Hegomen Pishoy Kamel   By Hegomen Pishoy Kamel   
  • 2. OutlineOutline  The Journey BeginsThe Journey Begins  Preparation Sunday (Matt. 6:1-8)Preparation Sunday (Matt. 6:1-8)  Treasuring Sunday (Matt. 6:24-34)Treasuring Sunday (Matt. 6:24-34)  Temptation Sunday (Matt. 4: 1-10)Temptation Sunday (Matt. 4: 1-10)  Sunday of the ProdigalSunday of the Prodigal (Luke 15:11-32)(Luke 15:11-32)  Sunday of the Samaritan (Matt 21:28–32)Sunday of the Samaritan (Matt 21:28–32)  Sunday of the Paralysed Man (John 4:1-42)Sunday of the Paralysed Man (John 4:1-42)  Sunday of the Marn Born Blind (Sunday of the Marn Born Blind ( John 5: 1–John 5: 1– 18)18)
  • 3. The JourneyThe Journey BeginsBegins The Journey BeginsThe Journey Begins  The essence of the fall was prideThe essence of the fall was pride  This is the essence of the fast, that we crucify this inherentThis is the essence of the fast, that we crucify this inherent selfishness so that we may love others. For Christ’s love inselfishness so that we may love others. For Christ’s love in this world is a crucified love.this world is a crucified love.  It is warfare against the passions.It is warfare against the passions.  Fasting is to realize that I am limitedFasting is to realize that I am limited  Fasting is a sign that God is the Source of life and not breadFasting is a sign that God is the Source of life and not bread  During the fast, there exists a a dual path: one to Christ andDuring the fast, there exists a a dual path: one to Christ and the other to our fellow brothers and sisters.the other to our fellow brothers and sisters.
  • 4. The Journey Begins:The Journey Begins: FastingFasting Fasting:Fasting:  The practice of fasting looks to theThe practice of fasting looks to the pastpast,, presentpresent andand futurefuture::  ToTo the pastthe past,, as a recognition of offencesas a recognition of offences committed against God and others;committed against God and others;  ToTo the presentthe present,, in order that we may learn to openin order that we may learn to open our eyes to others and to the world around us;our eyes to others and to the world around us;  ToTo the futurethe future,, in order that we may open ourin order that we may open our hearts to the realities of God and, by the gift ofhearts to the realities of God and, by the gift of divine mercy, renew the bond of communion with alldivine mercy, renew the bond of communion with all people and with the whole of creation, accepting thepeople and with the whole of creation, accepting the responsibility which each of us has in historyresponsibility which each of us has in history
  • 5. Preparation Sunday:Preparation Sunday: Shut your DoorShut your Door The Point of Departure of the JourneyThe Point of Departure of the Journey ““When you pray enter into your closet,...shut your door, pray to your FatherWhen you pray enter into your closet,...shut your door, pray to your Father which is in secret....” Also if you give alms or fast that also should be towhich is in secret....” Also if you give alms or fast that also should be to the Father in secret....the Father in secret....  The Church declares to us that the closet is the point of departure of theThe Church declares to us that the closet is the point of departure of the journey of Lent.  If it does not start at the closet then the journey of ourjourney of Lent.  If it does not start at the closet then the journey of our fast has deviated from its true course. The fact that the Church starts thefast has deviated from its true course. The fact that the Church starts the fast by directing us to the closet means that the fast is not only related tofast by directing us to the closet means that the fast is not only related to the flesh but it is related more to the spirit and to Kingdom of God.the flesh but it is related more to the spirit and to Kingdom of God. Close Your DoorClose Your Door  The journey starts after closing the door-the door that looks at the world.The journey starts after closing the door-the door that looks at the world. Then there opens before us another door that faces heaven, “Our fatherThen there opens before us another door that faces heaven, “Our father who art in heaven”, “I looked, and, behold a door was opened inwho art in heaven”, “I looked, and, behold a door was opened in heaven.” (Rev 4:1) “Fasting is not a fetter or a prison to the senses but aheaven.” (Rev 4:1) “Fasting is not a fetter or a prison to the senses but a soaring without hindrance towards contemplation of God.”soaring without hindrance towards contemplation of God.”
  • 6. Preparation Sunday:Preparation Sunday: He sees in secretHe sees in secret Your Father Who Sees in SecretYour Father Who Sees in Secret  Since the journey is with the soul, it should be done inSince the journey is with the soul, it should be done in secret. The relationship between the human soul and Christ,secret. The relationship between the human soul and Christ, is an invisible relationship that begins in the chamber.is an invisible relationship that begins in the chamber.  So fasting is accompanied by a reduction in talking and visitsSo fasting is accompanied by a reduction in talking and visits and by concentrating on spiritual readings and attending theand by concentrating on spiritual readings and attending the Divine Liturgy.Divine Liturgy.  Our Heavenly Father is calling us to a holy participation withOur Heavenly Father is calling us to a holy participation with Him in secret, through which we may start our fast, ourHim in secret, through which we may start our fast, our prayers, and our almsgivings. prayers, and our almsgivings.   So we need to beware of negligence.So we need to beware of negligence. Practice: The practice in the week of preparation is thePractice: The practice in the week of preparation is the prayer of the chamber and the worship in secret which willprayer of the chamber and the worship in secret which will continue with us all through after the period of fasting.continue with us all through after the period of fasting.
  • 7. Treasuring Sunday:Treasuring Sunday: SurrenderSurrender SurrenderSurrender of Life to the Heavenly Father: (Matt.of Life to the Heavenly Father: (Matt. 6:24-34)6:24-34) The gospel of the first Sunday of Lent calls for theThe gospel of the first Sunday of Lent calls for the surrender of life to the Father.surrender of life to the Father. ““Take no thought for your life, what you shall eat...norTake no thought for your life, what you shall eat...nor yet for the body, what you shall wear....do not worryyet for the body, what you shall wear....do not worry about tomorrow.” The reason for not worrying is thatabout tomorrow.” The reason for not worrying is that “your heavenly Father knows that you have of all“your heavenly Father knows that you have of all these things.” (Matt. 6:32).these things.” (Matt. 6:32).  The practice of this week is a call to a secure life inThe practice of this week is a call to a secure life in the care of the Father and the carrying out of whatthe care of the Father and the carrying out of what comes in the verse, “Do not worry about tomorrow,”comes in the verse, “Do not worry about tomorrow,” physically, mentally and spiritually.physically, mentally and spiritually.
  • 8. Treasuring Sunday:Treasuring Sunday: AssuranceAssurance The Christian commandment is full of risks but itsThe Christian commandment is full of risks but its assuranceassurance is the care of the Father. is the care of the Father.   The woman who gave the two mites was risking herThe woman who gave the two mites was risking her meal. During the fast, Satan wages his war bymeal. During the fast, Satan wages his war by convincing us that we are risking the necessities ofconvincing us that we are risking the necessities of the body and causes us to worry about our health.the body and causes us to worry about our health. Likewise, in charity, there is a risk of wealth.Likewise, in charity, there is a risk of wealth.  In this week, we experience the complete surrenderIn this week, we experience the complete surrender to the care of the Father and to His commandment.to the care of the Father and to His commandment.
  • 9. Temptation Sunday:Temptation Sunday: Don’t doubt hisDon’t doubt his FatherhoodFatherhood Why does God forget us if He is our Father? (Matt. 4: 1-10)Why does God forget us if He is our Father? (Matt. 4: 1-10) The gospel of the Second Sunday deals with the temptation ofThe gospel of the Second Sunday deals with the temptation of doubting God’s paternity to us,doubting God’s paternity to us, ““If you are the son of God-why does He leave you hungry?If you are the son of God-why does He leave you hungry? Why does God allow the presence of disease, failure and theWhy does God allow the presence of disease, failure and the death of our beloved?”death of our beloved?”  Practice: It is our duty this week to examine our faith in thePractice: It is our duty this week to examine our faith in the love of the Father who gave His Son for us. love of the Father who gave His Son for us.   Our faith should surpass all temptations and emotions.  FaithOur faith should surpass all temptations and emotions.  Faith in the Father should be a faith that fortifies us against thein the Father should be a faith that fortifies us against the temptation of the Adversary, the hardships of this world andtemptation of the Adversary, the hardships of this world and the sufferings and desires of the body.the sufferings and desires of the body.
  • 10. Sunday of theSunday of the Prodigal: RepentanceProdigal: Repentance Repentance in the Father’s bosom (Luke 15:11-32)Repentance in the Father’s bosom (Luke 15:11-32)  Repentance in Christianity is different from anyRepentance in Christianity is different from any other repentance; it is the return of the son to hisother repentance; it is the return of the son to his Father and the Father running to fall on the neck ofFather and the Father running to fall on the neck of His son to embrace him and kiss him (Luke 15:20).His son to embrace him and kiss him (Luke 15:20). This is the gospel of the third Sunday.This is the gospel of the third Sunday.  The Father’s paternity to us is not because of ourThe Father’s paternity to us is not because of our righteousness, but because of His paternity to hisrighteousness, but because of His paternity to his children, especially the sinners.children, especially the sinners.  The Father’s paternity for us challenges all our sins,The Father’s paternity for us challenges all our sins, our failures, our betrayal of His love and ourour failures, our betrayal of His love and our mistreatment of His name.mistreatment of His name.
  • 11. Sunday of theSunday of the Prodigal: Repent withProdigal: Repent with HimHim  Practice: Let’s not permit this week to go byPractice: Let’s not permit this week to go by without true repentance and resorting to thewithout true repentance and resorting to the Father’s embrace....Examine this in yourFather’s embrace....Examine this in your chamber and taste the Father’s embrace andchamber and taste the Father’s embrace and His kisses which are reserved only for thoseHis kisses which are reserved only for those who repent. This is the week of repentance inwho repent. This is the week of repentance in the Father’s bosom, the repentance of thethe Father’s bosom, the repentance of the whole Church...the communal repentance.whole Church...the communal repentance.
  • 12. Sunday of theSunday of the Samaritan: WorshipSamaritan: Worship Worship of the Father in Spirit and in Truth (John 4:1-Worship of the Father in Spirit and in Truth (John 4:1- 42)42)  The next step after repentance is worship of theThe next step after repentance is worship of the Father Who accepted and loved me and cleansedFather Who accepted and loved me and cleansed me from my sins and put me in His bosom. me from my sins and put me in His bosom.  Contrition of the spirit and submission to the FatherContrition of the spirit and submission to the Father and the love of frequent prostrations in worship areand the love of frequent prostrations in worship are the expressions of our love for Him who opened Histhe expressions of our love for Him who opened His arms for us sinners and kissed us. This is the end ofarms for us sinners and kissed us. This is the end of the road of repentance in the Father’s bosom, andthe road of repentance in the Father’s bosom, and this is the sweetest fruit of the chamber and whichthis is the sweetest fruit of the chamber and which the Father gives us in secret.the Father gives us in secret.
  • 13. Sunday of theSunday of the Samaritan: WorshipSamaritan: Worship  The Church, inspired by the Spirit, stresses inThe Church, inspired by the Spirit, stresses in the period of Lent the use of prostrationsthe period of Lent the use of prostrations during private prayers and in the Divineduring private prayers and in the Divine Liturgy (At the Offering of Incense after theLiturgy (At the Offering of Incense after the readings of the prophets).readings of the prophets).  The practice of this week is to worship theThe practice of this week is to worship the Father in spirit and truth “for such the FatherFather in spirit and truth “for such the Father seeks to worship Him.” (John 4:23)seeks to worship Him.” (John 4:23)
  • 14. Sunday of theSunday of the Paralysed Man:Paralysed Man: RenewalRenewal  Bethesda and Baptism (John 5:1-18)Bethesda and Baptism (John 5:1-18)  The Gospel of the fifth Sunday talks aboutThe Gospel of the fifth Sunday talks about Bethesda which symbolizes Baptism. We, theBethesda which symbolizes Baptism. We, the crowds of Christians, were beside it sick,crowds of Christians, were beside it sick, lame, blind and paralyzed; suffering everylame, blind and paralyzed; suffering every spiritual sickness. The Angel that moves thespiritual sickness. The Angel that moves the water symbolizes the Holy Spirit whichwater symbolizes the Holy Spirit which comes down on the water of Baptism.comes down on the water of Baptism.
  • 15. Sunday of theSunday of the Paralysed Man: Don’tParalysed Man: Don’t DespairDespair  This is our share in Christ: those who areThis is our share in Christ: those who are baptized are ever in the Father even if theybaptized are ever in the Father even if they have been sick for 38 years.have been sick for 38 years.  The practice of this week is to hope andThe practice of this week is to hope and never to despair—‎Baptism has given us thenever to despair—‎Baptism has given us the grace of adoption and children are nevergrace of adoption and children are never disappointed in their hopes in the love of thedisappointed in their hopes in the love of the Father.Father.
  • 16. Sunday of the ManSunday of the Man Born Blind:Born Blind: EnlightenmentEnlightenment  Sonship is a Spiritual Enlightenment (John 9:1-41)Sonship is a Spiritual Enlightenment (John 9:1-41)  The last Sunday in Lent is the Sunday of Baptism,The last Sunday in Lent is the Sunday of Baptism, during which we read the gospel of the man bornduring which we read the gospel of the man born blind.blind.   “ “I was blind and now I see.” This is our everlastingI was blind and now I see.” This is our everlasting experience as children of the Heavenly Father. Weexperience as children of the Heavenly Father. We were blind and He opened our sight so we beheldwere blind and He opened our sight so we beheld miracles of His laws and we saw what the prophetsmiracles of His laws and we saw what the prophets longed to see, and He gave us understanding of thelonged to see, and He gave us understanding of the Scriptures.Scriptures.
  • 17. Sunday of the ManSunday of the Man Born Blind:Born Blind: EnlightenmentEnlightenment  Baptism means washing (in the pool of Siloam), soBaptism means washing (in the pool of Siloam), so we become pure.we become pure.  Repentance is a continuous washing, so we mayRepentance is a continuous washing, so we may see clearly. Repentance is a continuation ofsee clearly. Repentance is a continuation of Baptism and it is the means through which we canBaptism and it is the means through which we can see Christ clearly all our life.see Christ clearly all our life.  Lasting repentance cleans our heart, renews theLasting repentance cleans our heart, renews the intellect, protects the contrite soul in the obedienceintellect, protects the contrite soul in the obedience of the Father, and through repentance, we canof the Father, and through repentance, we can discover all the graces and secrets of the Heavenlydiscover all the graces and secrets of the Heavenly Father.Father.
  • 18. Never to late to beginNever to late to begin the Journeythe Journey  If we that the Lord is not our treasure – it is not tooIf we that the Lord is not our treasure – it is not too late to start.late to start.  If we feel tempted and far from the Lord – it is not tooIf we feel tempted and far from the Lord – it is not too late to turn to Him in our need.late to turn to Him in our need.  If we feel lonely and lost in our sin, having separatedIf we feel lonely and lost in our sin, having separated ourselves from the Church as the Samaritan womanourselves from the Church as the Samaritan woman – let us come to the Lord to drink His living water.– let us come to the Lord to drink His living water.  If we have been long in sin as much as 38 years,If we have been long in sin as much as 38 years, focusing on our own power – it is not too late look tofocusing on our own power – it is not too late look to Him standing next to us and accept His healing.Him standing next to us and accept His healing.
  • 19. Never to late to beginNever to late to begin the Journeythe Journey  If we have been born blind, our eyes shut to theIf we have been born blind, our eyes shut to the Glory of God – it is not too late to let Him touch andGlory of God – it is not too late to let Him touch and create new eyescreate new eyes  If we are dead and our stench is obvious to allIf we are dead and our stench is obvious to all around – He calls us to arise and come fortharound – He calls us to arise and come forth  Let us ask and begin wherever we areLet us ask and begin wherever we are