Oculi
Like the other Sundays in Lent, it takes its name from the first word of the Latin Introit for the day, based on Psalm 25:15:
"Oculi mei semper ad Dominum..." > ("My eyes are ever toward the Lord...")
Today’s Readings
Old Testament Exodus 8: 16-24
When Aaron strikes the dust of the earth with his staff, it becomes gnats throughout the land. Significantly, Pharaoh’s magicians try to replicate the miracle but fail, forcing them to confess, "This is the finger of God." Despite this divine testimony, Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened. In the subsequent plague of flies, the Lord makes a clear distinction between Egypt and His people, shielding the land of Goshen from the swarm to demonstrate that He is the Lord in the midst of the earth.
Epistle Ephesians 5: 1-9
In this passage, St. Paul calls Christians to be "imitators of God" by walking in love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up as a sacrificial offering. He warns against sexual immorality, impurity, and greed, noting that these things are out of place for saints and invite God's wrath.
Gospel Luke 11: 14-28
In this passage, St. Paul calls Christians to be "imitators of God" by walking in love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up as a sacrificial offering. He warns against sexual immorality, impurity, and greed, noting that these things are out of place for saints and invite God's wrath.
Psalm 136:m 1-16 (v 26)
Thought for the Day
The Finger of God
On Oculi Sunday, we acknowledge that we are living in a spiritual battlefield, but we do not look at the enemy with fear. Instead, we fix our eyes (Oculi) on Jesus. In today’s Gospel, Jesus casts out demons by the "finger of God"—the same power that humbled Pharaoh in Egypt.
It is a comfort to know that while Satan is a "strong man" who guards his palace, Jesus is the "Stronger Man" who has already broken in, stripped the enemy of his armor, and claimed you as His own "spoil." When you feel overwhelmed by temptation or the darkness of the world, remember that you belong to the One who conquers with a mere finger. Your victory isn't found in your own strength, but in keeping your eyes fixed on the One who has already won the war.
"My eyes are ever toward the Lord, for he shall pluck my feet out of the net." — Psalm 25:15