Water, two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. The Earth is 71 % water and of the 71% 97% is ocean and 3% is fresh water. The human body is 60% water, and that varies from person to person. Water is very important to us, both as a resource and for our own survival. Water is life for it is indispensable.
THE RIVER OF LIFE
In today’s first reading, Ezekiel is describing one of his visions where the angel carries him to the “temple of the Lord” and there he sees water flowing from the temple. Note that when the water from the temple comes to the sea it makes it fresh water. This water has the power to change salty water into fresh water. It has the power to grow plants and trees where “Their leaves shall not fade, nor their fruit fail”. God’s river does not need any feeder streams.
THE TEMPLE’S WATER
I found it interesting that the passage did not talk about drinking the water but only spoke of things that could be used as food and medicine — and these would never fade. While Ezekiel saw all the abundance that came from the water that flowed from the Temple of the Lord, the man at the pool of Bethesda in today’s gospel passage was able to experience the healing power that came from the Son of God.
RELYING ON JESUS THE HEALER
Jesus offers him healing with his Word: “Rise, take up your mat, and walk”. In what ways can we open our hearts to Jesus Christ for healing? What needs to be healed within us? Do I rely on God or something else? If we are faithful to God, lent therefore becomes an opportunity to rediscover ourselves and journey with the Lord. Let the river flow that life and fruitfulness may be brought forth.
Osho