5th WEEK OF LENT (A) : Tuesday, 24th March 2026

The journey of the Israelites in the desert and the words of Jesus in John’s Gospel reveal a shared struggle of the human heart: resistance to trust. In Numbers, the people grow impatient and complain against God and Moses. Their focus shifts from God’s saving power to their present discomfort. The consequence is deadly, yet God’s response is mercy. Through the bronze serpent lifted high, healing is offered by inviting the people to look upon the sign God provides and trust in Him.

This moment foreshadows what Jesus reveals in John’s Gospel. Speaking to those who doubt and misunderstand Him, Jesus declares that when He is “lifted up,” they will know who He is. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking upon the raised serpent, humanity is saved by looking to Christ lifted up in love and obedience to the Father.

Both passages invite us to examine how we respond when life becomes difficult. Do we complain and turn inward, or do we lift our eyes in faith to God? Jesus reminds us that true freedom comes from believing in Him and remaining in His word. We are called to fix our gaze on Christ crucified and risen, particularly in moments of doubt, suffering, or confusion. When we look to Him with honest hearts, we are healed, drawn into truth, and given life. In lifting our eyes to Christ, we learn to trust the Father who is always with us.

PRAYER:  Lord Jesus, I trust in You.