Yesterday, from the window of his study in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, Pope Francis explained that the fourth Sunday of Lent - which is called Laetare Sunday, is an occasion for us to rejoice. The word Laetare means rejoice. Even though we are still a few weeks away from the celebration of Easter, we can already begin to exalt and to celebrate because we are the beloved of God.
The prophet Isaiah tells us that the time will come when the Lord will rejoice and exalt in his people (Is 65:19). This time has arrived in the person of Jesus Christ. God the Father sent his son into the world so that he could show us the great mercy that is found in the heart of our God.
This period of Lent invites us to come back to our heavenly Father. He waits with infinite patience for us to open our hearts to him and to trust that he will not turn us away. In fact, he will throw the doors of his heart open wide and rejoice, and he will invite us to taste the great joy of rejoicing and exalting in his presence.
Take time today to be aware of the secrets that are still held in the depths of your heart, the things you try to keep hidden even from God. Try to imagine the experience of presenting those secrets to him honestly and humbly. Picture it in your mind and trust that you too can know the great joy of celebrating such a great homecoming.
Have a great day.
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