Here, you will find a collection of reflections, guide questions, images and slide backgrounds — all crafted to enhance and elevate your celebration of the Fifth Sunday of Lent (Year B).
The Gist of John 12:20-33
Some Greeks approach Philip expressing a desire to see Jesus. Jesus responds by speaking about his impending death, comparing it to a grain falling to the ground to bear much fruit. He emphasizes the necessity of losing one’s life for his sake and declares that his hour has come, anticipating glorification through his crucifixion.
… unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit …
John 12:24
Virtual Garden
In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks of a grain of wheat falling to the ground and dying to bear much fruit. Just as a seed transforms into a flourishing plant, we too must consider the seeds we plant online. In our interconnected world, social media is our virtual garden. However, like any garden, it requires careful tending.
Think of your online presence as a seed. What kind of fruit are you cultivating? Are your posts and comments uplifting and encouraging, or do they spread negativity and discord? Jesus encourages us to be seeds of kindness, compassion, and love.
Fortress of Love
Now, let’s relate this to the modern challenge of online hacking. Just as a garden can be infiltrated by unwanted pests, our virtual spaces can be invaded by hackers seeking to sow chaos. Just as we protect our physical belongings, we must safeguard our online presence. Use strong passwords, be cautious about the information you share, and cultivate a digital environment that promotes positivity.
As Jesus speaks of being lifted up, let our online presence lift others. Let our words and actions be a beacon of light in the digital landscape, guiding others towards goodness and truth. In a world where hacking threatens our security, let our online presence be a fortress of love and positivity. May the seeds we plant online bear fruits of kindness, and may our virtual gardens be places of growth, not destruction.
Like seeds in a garden, our actions towards the Earth determine the quality of the harvest. Let us cultivate a world where every seed sown is a gesture of care and respect for our common home.
Pope Francis
Reflective Questions for Spiritual Growth
- How can you apply the metaphor of a seed falling to the ground and dying to your online presence? Are you sowing seeds of kindness and positivity, or are there areas that need transformation?
- Take a moment to reflect on the concept of being “lifted up” as mentioned in John 12:32. How can you elevate your online interactions to inspire and uplift others?
- In light of the threat of online hacking, how can you strengthen the security of your digital presence? How can you contribute to creating a safer and more secure online environment for yourself and others?
Free Social Images & Slides to Share
Feel free to download and share the following images on your social media platforms. Additionally, a presentation background is available for use in various presentation tools such as PowerPoint, Google Slides, Canva, and others:
