Daily Readings - Fri Apr 01 2022
John
1After this Jesus went about in Galilee. He would not go about in Judea, because the Jews were seeking to kill him.2Now the Jews' Feast of Booths was at hand.10But after his brothers had gone up to the feast, then he also went up, not publicly but in private.25Some of the people of Jerusalem therefore said, "Is not this the man whom they seek to kill?26And here he is, speaking openly, and they say nothing to him! Can it be that the authorities really know that this is the Christ?27But we know where this man comes from, and when the Christ appears, no one will know where he comes from."28So Jesus proclaimed, as he taught in the temple, "You know me, and you know where I come from? But I have not come of my own accord. He who sent me is true, and him you do not know.29I know him, for I come from him, and he sent me."30So they were seeking to arrest him, but no one laid a hand on him, because his hour had not yet come.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the themes of faith, rejection, and divine providence. In the first reading from the Book of Wisdom, we encounter the unjust suffering of a righteous man. His persecutors, driven by malice and ignorance, question his faith and God’s presence in his life, leading them to test him through suffering and death. This passage highlights the profound trust of the just in God’s plan, even in the face of immense adversity. The Gospel from John presents Jesus, who faces similar rejection and skepticism. Despite the danger, Jesus boldly proclaims his divine mission, teaching in the temple and asserting that he is sent by God, whom the people do not fully understand. The Pharisees’ attempt to arrest him reminds us that Jesus’ time had not yet come, underscoring the mystery of God’s timing and plan.
Both readings reveal a deep connection in their portrayal of rejection and misunderstanding. The just man in Wisdom and Jesus in the Gospel embody the same faith and trust in God’s plan, even when surrounded by hostility and confusion. The first reading warns us against the blindness of malice and the dangers of doubting God’s presence in the lives of the righteous. The Gospel, meanwhile, shows us Jesus as the ultimate example of steadfastness in fulfilling his mission, despite the opposition. Together, these readings remind us that true wisdom and justice are often met with resistance, but they also assure us that God’s truth will ultimately prevail.
In our daily lives, these readings call us to embrace faith and trust in God’s plan, especially when we face challenges or misunderstandings. Like the just man and Jesus, we are invited to remain steadfast in our commitment to God, even when others question or oppose us. Let us reflect on our own lives and ask: Where am I experiencing rejection or doubt? How can I trust more deeply in God’s plan and timing? May we, like Jesus, find the courage to live out our faith boldly, knowing that God’s truth will shine through, even in the darkest moments.