The theme for the Fifth Sunday in Lent is the fruit of the cross. Formerly, the fifth Sunday in Lent was named, “Passion Sunday.” Though the name has changed, the theme of suffering and sacrifice of Christ is prevalent. The fruits or results of Christ’s passion are given.
In the Gospel (Mark 10: (32-34) 35-45) Jesus’ upcoming death is an hour of glory for both the Son and the Father. From this suffering Jesus learns obedience (Epistle lesson Hebrews 5:1-10). The new covenant, promised in the Old Testament lesson (Jeremiah 3:31-34) is fulfilled through the death of the Lamb. Christ’s cross enables God and man to enter a new era of reconciliation. Because of the benefits of the cross, we can glory in it. With the end of Lent approaching, it is good to give consideration to the benefits of the cross of Jesus Christ.
Psalm 116:1-4, 8; antiphon, Psalm 43:1—In the antiphon, the psalmist cries out for deliverance from the wickedness that surrounds him. The rest of the Introit praises the LORD for this deliverance.
Typical elements of a thanksgiving psalm are present — expression of gratitude and/or trust (verses 1-2, 5-7, 10-11, 15-16), description of prior distress and deliverance (verses 3-4, 8-9), and the announcement of intent to offer sacrifice and/or make vows to God (verses 12-14, 17-19).
References to Sheol (verse 3) are frequent in the Psalms. While Sheol is sometimes a place — the realm of the dead — to which even God has no access (see Psalm 6:5; 30:9; 88:3-7, 10-13), here Sheol seems more metaphorically to represent a deadly threat, in the midst of which God is able to help (see Psalms 30:3; 49:15; 56:13; 86:13).
And in this case, God has helped! The one threatened with death will live, as verses 8-9 make clear (see Psalm 118:17). The impact on the psalmist lasts a lifetime — “I will call on him as long as I live” (verse 2). In short, the psalmist’s love for God will be evident as he or she prays “without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). 1
We are now in the throes of Lent. Soon Easter will come. The cross looms large for us. By that cross comes victory, salvation and yes, life itself. Rejoice! Christ has come to save. Call upon Him in the day of trouble. He will answer. He will heal.
Collect for Psalm 116: God of power and mercy, through the Passion and resurrection of your Son you have fre3ede us from the bonds of death and the anguish of separation from you. Be with us on our pilgrimage and help us offer you a sacrifice of praise, fulfill our vows, and glorify you in the presence of all your people; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 2
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