On this Sunday, the fifth Sunday of Lent, we remember St. Mary of Egypt. Fr. Micah begins today’s sermon by telling her story — a story of great repentance and great mercy. From a young age, St. Mary of Egypt lived a life of indulgence in the pleasures of the flesh. When she tried to enter the sanctuary of a church, she was prevented by an invisible force. She looked to the icon of the Mother of God, and she asked her to beseech Christ to have mercy on her. She was then able to enter into the church, where she was told by a voice to cross the River Jordan. She traveled, washed herself, and received communion. Afterwards, she lived a life of asceticism and prayer in the desert.

Fr. Micah explains that this story is often misunderstood, as St. Mary’s fasting is perceived as an attempt to gain Christ’s mercy and forgiveness. However, in the very moment that her heart is broken, in the very moment that she is repentant, Christ shows her mercy. Before entering the desert into a life of asceticism, she receives the body and blood of Christ. Fr. Micah emphasizes that we don't practice asceticism to earn God’s love, but we practice asceticism to retain the love that he gives us. As 1 John 4:19 says, “We love him because he first loved us.” The beautiful and good mysteries of Christ are given to us, and our duty is to protect and rejoice in them.