INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
Unlike the synoptic writers, John places the cleansing of the Temple early in his Gospel. Even before this dramatic episode he foreshadowed its outcome: ‘He came to his own domain and his own people did not accept him’ (1:11). Step-by-step the fourth gospel records the mounting hostility that culminates in Jesus’ crucifixion.
John notes here that Jesus did not ‘trust himself’ to would-be believers. But the next scene of the Gospel introduces a counter-example, the seeker Nicodemus. Initially he is puzzled and confused by Jesus’ words. Later, however, he defends Jesus (7:50-52) and finally provides the spices for Jesus’ burial.
Wherever his journey of faith finally led him, Nicodemus might serve as a friendly companion on our Lenten way.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
We pray for custodians of parish churches, cathedral and shrines, that they will ensure these buildings are lively places of hospitality and mercy.
SAMPLE INTERCESSIONS
These intercessions are offered for selected use at Sunday Mass in the parish alongside those that express local needs and concerns.
PRESIDER
Dear friends, Jesus’ words are truth and life. Responding in faith, let us give voice to the needs and hopes of the world.
READER
We pray for the church, global and local. May Christian communities everywhere testify to the power and wisdom of the crucified Christ. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for scholars, preachers and teachers. May they offer wise and encouraging guidance on the practice of Christian morality in contemporary society. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for an end to the terrible bloodshed persisting in so many places around the world. May heartless perpetrators repent of their brutality and lay down their arms. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for women around the world, especially in societies that deny them freedom. May this week’s International Women’s Day (8 March) strengthen their hope for fulfilling lives. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the work of Caritas Samoa in providing clean drinking water to island residents. May our support for Project Compassion help them sustain this initiative. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the nation of Australia. May leaders arise who appeal to our best selves and call us out of fear, resentment and division into confidence and community. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for all who work in Catholic agencies of education, health and social service. May their missionary spirit be good news for all they serve. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for all who are confined in prison, especially young Indigenous offenders. May they gain freedom of body, mind and spirit and find the way to a new life. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the recently deceased . . . and for those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time. May they enter the heavenly sanctuary that is the risen Christ. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
PRESIDER
God of all wisdom and love, you raised your Son from death that we might live in him. Help us share his life with the world. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Image: St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney. depositphotos.com