I receive

Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica – Ez 47:1-2,8-9,12; 1 Cor 3:9-11,16-17; John 2:13-22

Sometimes it feels like the good we try to do just sinks into the ocean of our weaknesses. A kind word, an honest effort, a small act of mercy—then it all seems to get swallowed up by a flood of evil, lies, hypocrisy, and godlessness. As if goodness simply hasn’t got the strength to break through.

But today Scripture gives us a different picture. Ezekiel sees water flowing from beneath the threshold of the Temple: it runs down into the wasteland and reaches the sea—and when it pours into those dead waters, it makes them fresh. What was lifeless becomes a place of life.

So what’s the difference between that vision and our daily experience? Maybe we just don’t see far enough. Maybe we measure the truth by our own limited view and get discouraged too quickly. Or maybe the key is this: that water doesn’t come from human effort. It comes from a place made holy by God.

And that’s where we’re tempted to go wrong. We try to fix everything ourselves. We lean too heavily on our own plans—even on our prayers, as if they’re techniques rather than trust. We forget that grace isn’t manufactured; it’s received.

The signs are still simple: trees that bear fruit, hearts that come alive, the sacraments that quietly pour out healing. God is the Creator. He gives life. He restores. He saves.

Lord Jesus Christ, when I can’t see goodness winning, steady my gaze. Help me recognise Your power at work in both the great and the tiny acts of love You send into the world. You live and reign for ever and ever. Amen.