[pre-sermon note on why we veil the cross and other images during the final two weeks of Lent (passiontide)]
Lent is a time of preparation for the renewal of our baptism at Easter. We renew our baptism by confession, especially in preparation for Divine Mercy Sunday. Consider this week's Gospel in relation to the sacrament of Confession.
"Master, the one whom you love is ill." When we prepare for confession, we recognize that Jesus loves us so much! and that we truly are ill and in need of healing.
"And Jesus wept." When we confess we must be truly sorry for our sins.
"Show me where you laid him." We then confess our serious sins according to name and number, and our venial sins we confess as is most helpful to us.
"Untie the burial bands." Even after being forgiven, the stench of sin is around us. However, penance helps to free us from the bonds of sin!
Listen online [here]!
