In the desert the Israelites tested God because they were thirsty, but Moses struck the rock and water flowed. Christians see this as a sign pointing toward Christ. According to St John’s Gospel, when he was lifted up on the cross, after his death a soldier pierced his side with a lance and at once there came out blood and water (John 19.31-34).
The Church sees in the water and blood issuing from Christ’s side the two sacraments given us by Jesus – the water of baptism to drown sin and cleanse us from its power, and the cup of the Eucharist to nourish us and give us the food of eternal life - Jesus himself.
Collects
Eternal God,
give us insight
to discern your will for us,
to give up what harms us,
and to seek the perfection we are promised
in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Grant, Lord, that as we recall in Lent the wonders of your love, we may receive an overflowing measure of grace from Jesus Christ, the fount of heavenly gifts. Through him, who is alive and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen
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