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

The Lord is Close to the Broken-hearted

Life often feels like a battlefield. We face rejection, suffering, and moments where it seems like God is silent. In today’s readings, we see how the righteous suffer, yet God remains close to them.

A young boy once prayed, "Lord, if You can’t make me a better person, don’t worry—I’m happy just the way I am!" Sometimes, we want to avoid the struggles that come with doing the right thing, but God calls us to remain faithful.

The Book of Wisdom speaks about the wicked plotting against the just, thinking that if God truly loved them, He would rescue them. This same mindset was seen in those who persecuted Jesus. They could not accept His authority, so they sought to silence Him.

The Psalm reminds us that "The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." This is a beautiful promise—no matter how deep our struggles, God is with us.

In John’s Gospel, Jesus moves cautiously because people seek to kill Him. Yet, despite opposition, He remains committed to His mission. His confidence comes from knowing who He is and where He comes from.

In the Eucharist, we receive the strength to endure difficulties. Jesus, who suffered rejection and pain, becomes our food, giving us hope and the courage to carry our crosses.

Question for Reflection

• Have I ever felt abandoned because of my faith or doing the right thing?

• How can I trust God more in difficult times?

Daily Practical Application

• Encourage someone who is feeling rejected or broken-hearted.

• Spend time in prayer, surrendering your struggles to God.

• Trust that even when God seems silent, He is working for your good.

To anyone struggling today—whether it’s unemployment, illness, or family problems—remember that Jesus understands your pain. Hold on to Him; He is closer than you think.

What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

• Be a source of hope to someone in need.

• Deepen your faith by learning more about God’s word.

• Take part in acts of mercy—feed the hungry, comfort the sorrowful.

No suffering is wasted when placed in God's hands. What seems like rejection today may be a setup for greater blessings tomorrow.

Stand firm in your faith! Even when people misunderstand you, trust that God is leading you to something greater.

Jesus was rejected, but He remained focused on His mission. Do not let rejection discourage you. Keep moving forward in faith!

As South Africa faces challenges—unemployment, crime, and social divisions—let us be pilgrims of hope, bringing healing and unity through our faith.

We say, "Umoja, strength in unity." Even when we are broken, God gathers us, heals us, and makes us whole again.

Rejection is not the end; it is God’s redirection to something greater.

No matter the rejection or suffering we face, God remains close to us. Let us trust in His plan, remain faithful, and be a source of hope to others.

Lord, when I feel rejected or alone, remind me that You are always with me. Give me the strength to endure, the faith to trust, and the love to forgive. Amen.