Third Sunday of Lent

Praise be to Jesus Christ

Were you able to spend time in God’s grace last week?

How is your Lent?

May God’s blessing be with all of you who are living out Lent obediently.

I have a good news.  

Cheongju Diocese has a new leader.  The newly named bishop is Fr. Kim Jong Gang, Simon.  

Fr. Kim studied in Rome and tenured as a professor in the Catholic University in Korea; he also served as the managing director for the Catholic Conference of Korea.  Current Bishop Jang said “He thanks God for choosing a well-qualified priest as the new Cheongju Diocese leader. “  

I heard the news that a new bishop had been appointed late last night and went to bed.  Then I woke up really early and confirm that Fr. Kim Jong Gang, Simon, had been appointed.  I also thank God and reminisce my memories with Fr. Kim.   

He is two years ahead of me in the Seminary School; we have spent about 20 years together.  Fr. Kim is highly educated, accomplished, and virtuous priest.  He is vastly capable person in all areas.  

Through his studies abroad, he is well read and centered in his character.  He also has a great rapport with his peers and especially took care of under classmen.  He also enjoys various sports and music which he also excels in.  The future is bright for the Cheongju Diocese under the leadership of Fr. Kim Jong Gang, the 4th bishop.  

The first reading proclaims the name of God.  In Hebrew, His name is Yahweh.  Yahweh means “I am who I am.” (Exodus 3:14) “Who I am” means self-existence without any outside influence; no one creates or cease to exist but continuously am thus complete and perfect.  

In the name, perfect Yahweh God, our lives depend on.  

The perfect God fills our emptiness.  The gospel tells us, God waits for our repentance and fills our emptiness.  He fertilizes a fig tree that did not bear any fruits for three years and waits another year.  One day may seem like a thousand years in God’s timeline, hence one year is a tremendous time and opportunity.  However, there is always an end and it may lead to destruction.  “If you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!”  (Luke 13:5)

Today is the 3rd Sunday of Lent.  

I hope we spend blessed time fertilizing ourselves through prayers, and fasting so we may walk towards our God.  

Let us meditate.