Christ Within
It’s hardly surprising that many people today feel emotionally numb. Modern life presents countless difficulties and obstacles. Pope Francis has described consumerism as this era’s leading spiritual “grave,” calling it a harmful “wound” and “cancer” that breeds selfishness, anxious desire for more, indifference toward others, and disregard for God. “Consumerism is a virus that damages faith at its core by convincing you that life depends only on what you possess, causing you to forget the God who comes near,” he said. Faith’s foundation is undermined, leading to a dull, indifferent existence.
Constant exposure to digital distractions, advertising, and social media can create an illusion of fulfilment and make consumerism addictive. The fast-paced “instant” culture greedily consumes nature and resources, diminishing gratitude, reflection, and community ties—putting technology ahead of genuine human connection. When stripped of meaning, purpose, and relationships, our souls feel deserted, arid, abandoned, and unable to respond to Christ’s Passion.
Yet, today’s readings offer hope by illustrating how we can rise from our spiritual “graves.” They highlight God’s promise to overcome death through the power of His Spirit, which is fulfilled in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The prophet Ezekiel speaks of Israel’s restoration from a death-like exile; “I will bring you back to the land of Israel. I will put my spirit within you, and you shall live.” St Paul explains that the Spirit, who raised Jesus from the dead, can also give life to our mortal bodies. In the Gospel, Jesus cries out “Lazarus, come out!” – sending His Spirit, breaking the bonds of death, raising Lazarus, and revealing Himself as “the resurrection and the life.”
Cling to hope. Persevere. Trust in God. Remain close to Jesus—through his suffering, death, and resurrection. When challenges arise, keep pressing forward. Walking in His light.
If you haven’t, listen to the song “Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me.” The following two verses from the song beautifully express our hope in God’s promise of salvation:
No fate I dread, I know I am forgiven
The future’s sure, the price, it has been paid
For Jesus bled and suffered for my pardon
And He was raised to overthrow the grave
To this I hold, my sin has been defeated
Jesus, now and ever is my plea
Oh, the chains are released, I can sing, “I am free”
Yet not I, but through Christ in me
Blessed Sunday to all. Randy Reyes