Daily Catholic Lectio
Mon, 31 March ‘25
Fourth Week of Lent – Monday
Isaiah 65:17–21 | John 4:43–54
No More Death!
We now enter the fourth week of Lent. The readings throughout this week speak of how Jesus fulfils the Old Testament prophecies and promises about the Messiah. At the same time, they also foreshadow the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Christ.
First Reading: A New Joyful Creation
In today’s First Reading, the prophet Isaiah describes the transformation that will take place when the people of Judah return to their homeland:
(a) God’s joy over Jerusalem
The Lord takes delight in Jerusalem. He declares that “the sound of weeping and crying will no longer be heard.” God puts an end to the people’s suffering. As the Lord rejoices over His people, they too will rejoice in Him.
(b) Long life as a gift
Long life is presented as a divine gift. Though we cannot extend our days by ourselves—medicine and technology may delay death but cannot prevent it—Isaiah foretells that in the Messianic time, people will enjoy extended lifespans.
(c) Death and youth
Even if an old person dies, they will be considered as having died young. Death will be so distant from human life that it will no longer carry the same shadow or fear.
Gospel: Jesus heals from a distance
Today’s Gospel recounts the healing of a royal official’s son by Jesus. We observe three seeming contrasts in this passage:
(a) “A prophet is not honoured in his own country,” says Jesus. Yet, His own people welcome Him.
(b) Jesus rebukes the people, saying, “Unless you see signs and wonders, you will not believe.” But then He performs a healing miracle for the royal official’s son.
(c) The official pleads, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” But Jesus responds simply, “Go; your son will live.” And the miracle happens—from a distance, through a word.
At the first sign, Jesus’ disciples had believed. At this second sign, the official and his entire household believe.
Key Themes:
(a) A word that works from afar: This miracle happens not by physical touch, but by Jesus’ word. The official believes in that word and departs. By the end of the story, his faith is not just in the miracle—but in the Word Himself, Jesus. Jesus shows His authority over place and space.
(b) Jesus’ power over death. Jesus’ authority over death is not limited or partial. He has complete power to overcome death.
(c) A journey of faith. The royal official begins a journey toward Jesus and returns to his home. Both journeys are carried by faith. The one who believes sustains life—in himself and in others.
The Messianic Fulfilment
Today’s readings reveal the promise of the Messiah: In Jesus’ presence, death, sorrow, and suffering are cast away. Joy enters. Life is restored. Tears are wiped away.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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