Friday of the Fifth Week of Lent (Homily/Sermon)

Theme: “When Trouble Comes, God Stands By Me”
Readings: Jeremiah 20:10–13 | Psalm 18 | Gospel Acclamation: John 6:63c, 68c | John 10:31–42

🌅 As we near the end of Lent and approach Holy Week, today’s readings remind us that even the faithful are not spared from trouble. But here’s the good news: God does not abandon His own. He doesn’t promise us a storm-free life—but He promises His presence in every storm.

😂 A man once said, “When I’m in trouble, I know God is there… because everyone else runs away!” It’s true. When the going gets tough, even your WhatsApp chats go quiet. But God? He stays. And that’s why we can say, “In my distress, I called upon the Lord, and He heard me.”

📖 

In Jeremiah 20, the prophet is surrounded by betrayal and threats. He hears whispering on all sides—“Terror on every side!” And yet, he boldly declares:

“But the Lord is with me, like a mighty champion.”

That is the faith that does not collapse under pressure.

In John 10, Jesus is once again under attack. The people want to stone Him—not because He did wrong, but because He spoke truth. His works were good, but His identity threatened them. Still, Jesus remains calm, rooted in who He is and who sent Him.

This is what Lent teaches us: faithfulness under fire.

✝ Eucharist

At the table of the Lord, we meet our Champion. In the bread and wine, Jesus stands with us—not only to strengthen us but to remind us: “I am with you always.”

When we receive the Eucharist, we are not just receiving food—we are receiving courage.

❓ Question for Reflection

When trouble surrounds me—what do I focus on: the storm or the Saviour?
Who do I become when I feel attacked or betrayed?

🛠️ Daily Practical Application

• When you feel overwhelmed, pause and pray Psalm 18: “I love You, O Lord, my strength.”

• Encourage someone going through hardship. Be a quiet support.

• Let your faith speak louder than your fear.

💔 For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

Whether you feel betrayed, unheard, or exhausted—God hears your cry. Just as Jeremiah was not forgotten, neither are you. Stand firm. Your tears are not wasted. Your survival is part of your testimony.

🕊️ What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

• Walk with someone who's facing injustice or difficulty.

• Be a “Champion of hope” in your parish or community—start a prayer group or support circle.

• Use your voice—write, pray, act—to uplift the voiceless.

🇿🇦 

In South Africa, many of us know what it feels like to live under pressure—economic strain, political tension, emotional fatigue. But we are also a people of resilience. Like Jeremiah, like Jesus, we rise. We sing. We pray. We hold on. God is still with us.

💬 Inspiration Quote

"The fire around you cannot consume the God within you."

🧱 Pilgrims of Hope

To be a Pilgrim of Hope doesn’t mean you escape hardship—it means you carry it with grace, trusting that God walks the road with you.

Let this Lent remind you: you are never alone in the fire.

🙏 

Lord Jesus,
In my distress, I call out to You—
and I know You hear me.
Stand with me like You did with Jeremiah.
Help me to be brave, loving, and faithful
in times of trial.
Let me be a living witness
that hope does not disappoint.
Amen.