On this third Sunday of Lent we draw closer to the season of Easter. At the Easter Vigil adults will enter into the life giving waters of baptism. Thus the Easter season is a reminder to each of us of own baptism. How we were thrust into the baptismal waters on three occasions and rose forth from them like Christ who died, was placed into the tomb for a period of three days, and then rose forth from death.
This Gospel reflects the reality of Christ’s authority over the devil. In baptism the soul of the receiver was freed from the devil’s grasp. Despite this the devil continues to chase after us and desires nothing more then us to turn away from our relationship with God which was begun in us at our baptism.
Our Gospel speaks about division and how that division will cause “house upon house” to fall. Indeed if we invite the devil to enter into our life and give into his temptations we shall fall. So many invite temptation into their life and then it begins to control them causing them to continually indulge. This is to allow “house upon house” to fall for here we seem to be crushed upon Satan’s grasp.
Our Epistle reminds us of our need to follow after life by following God and coming to reject that death that comes to us through sin. This Epistle speaks of armor which has been taken away leaving him without defense. Truly we should want nothing to spoil what begun in us at our baptism. We must place this armor upon ourself as we go forth into the world to proclaim Christ unto all.
Armor was given to us in baptism and confirmation. Armor is given to us when we worthily receive our Blessed Lord in Holy Communion. Armor is given to us when we prevail ourself to Christ’s infinite mercy found in the sacrament of Confession. Armor is given to us when we lift up our heart and soul in prayer. Armor is given to us when we fast and give alms. This armor is God’s grace which is poured out upon us, but how sad is it to see so many who walk about this life without giving no though to such a gift.
