Brazen Serpent
Giovanni Fantoni, 20th century

My dear friends,

On this fourth Sunday in Lent, let us reflect upon the teachings of the Holy Bible, specifically Numbers 21:4-9 and John 3:14-21. These passages, though seemingly unrelated, are deeply connected in their essence and bear significant insights for our journey towards spiritual growth and enlightenment.

In Numbers 21:4-9, the Israelites grumble against God and Moses, expressing dissatisfaction with their lives in the wilderness. As a consequence, they are plagued with venomous snakes, causing many to suffer and die. Realizing their mistake, the people repent and ask Moses to pray for them. God instructs Moses to create a bronze serpent and place it on a pole. When the afflicted look upon this symbol, they are healed.

This story illustrates the power of healing through transforming one's perspective. The bronze serpent represents the transmutation of poison into medicine. The suffering caused by the venomous snakes, like the suffering we experience in our own lives, can be a catalyst for change and growth. By recognizing the source of our suffering, we can learn to confront it and transform it into wisdom and healing.

In John 3:14-21, Jesus refers to the story of the bronze serpent, drawing a parallel between this Old Testament symbol and his own crucifixion: "Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him" (John 3:14-15). Jesus further expounds on this theme of light and darkness, emphasizing that those who embrace the light of truth and love will find salvation, while those who remain in darkness will continue to suffer.

The essence of these passages is the transformative power of love and compassion. When we are faced with suffering, we have a choice: to remain in the darkness of ignorance and selfishness, or to embrace the light of wisdom and compassion, the key to inner peace and spiritual growth.

In these times of darkness, let us be like the bronze serpent, transmuting poison into medicine. Let us embrace the light of compassion and wisdom, and be a beacon for those who are lost in the darkness of suffering.

As we continue our journey through Lent, may we reflect upon the lessons of the bronze serpent and the teachings of Jesus, cultivating an open heart and a compassionate mind. Let us take this time to purify ourselves, embracing the light of wisdom and the healing power of love, so that we may be a source of peace and happiness for all beings.