We have come to the midway point of our Lenten journey, for some it is a good chance to get back on track with our Lenten disciplines and for others it is to strive to maintain or increase what we have started. This Sunday is called “Laetare Sunday,” as the shift in the readings start to focus more and more on Jesus’ pending arrest, torture, crucifixion, and ultimately His resurrection at Easter. St. Paul reminds us of the God, who is rich in mercy because of the great love He has for us, even when we are living in sin and transgressions, God is desiring us to return to Him. King Cyrus calls upon the followers of God to gather together and go to help build the new Temple in Jerusalem, to demonstrate their belief and love for God. The famous passage from John’s Gospel, tells us of the Father’s love for His people, because He will send His own Son so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but might have eternal life. His Son will suffer and die for us, in order to redeem His people and the world. What love for us to ponder and rejoice in!