Daily Readings - Fri Apr 04 2025

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

In today's readings, we encounter themes of faith, doubt, and the fulfillment of God's plan. The first reading from Wisdom describes the wicked plotting against a just man, questioning his divine claims and plotting his demise. This reflects the age-old struggle between good and evil, where the righteous face persecution for their faith. The context is one of misunderstanding and malice, as the wicked fail to see God's larger plan. In the Gospel, Jesus faces similar skepticism and danger. Moving secretly to avoid those seeking his death, he teaches openly in the temple, sparking debates about his identity. Some question his claim to be the Messiah, thinking they know his origins. Jesus affirms his divine mission, causing confusion and an attempt to seize him, yet his time has not yet come. This highlights the tension between human doubt and divine timing. These readings remind us to stand firm in faith amidst doubt and opposition. They encourage us to trust in God's plan, recognizing that our true identity and mission come from Him. Let us embrace our faith courageously, understanding that God's plan unfolds in His time, not ours. In a world filled with uncertainty, may we find strength in our faith, trusting that God's truth will prevail.