Readings: Fourth Sunday of Lent | USCCB
He thirsts for the conversion of human hearts.
And, figuratively, He ran, hastening to achieve the remission of our sins.
Extracted from Arnold of Bonneval’s reflection on The Seven Last Words of Christ, these words capture not only the essence of the fifth word of Christ from the Cross, “I Thirst,” but reflect the themes of mercy and conversion running deep within the readings for this weekend.
The parable of the prodigal son illustrates ‘thirst’ from various perspectives – the younger son seeking independence, the older son wanting recognition, and the father desiring relationship.
Our lives have likely run parallel at one time or another with these characters. Perhaps like you, I relate more closely with the sons than with the father. However, through God’s mercy, I know that our inclinations for independence and recognition can only be life-giving when used in support of our relationship with the Living Font through whom all blessings flow.
When struck with thirst, the last thing we want to do is run. During the remaining weeks of Lent and beyond, may our desire for relationship with God reflect more closely the intensity with which God pursues us.
O thirst most life-giving, desirous of our friendship:
O penetrating thirst, shattering the sinful desire of the heart!
Lord, grant that I may thirst always for you.
-St. Bonaventure, De Septem Verbis Domini in Cruce
Professor Jacob Benda teaches organ to a student in Aquinas Chapel on May 19, 2022, in St. Paul.
Dr. Jacob Benda
Director of Music, Liturgy and Sacred Arts
Campus Ministry
