Daily Readings - Fri Apr 05 2019
John
1After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him.2Now the Jews' feast of tabernacles was at hand.10But when his brethren were gone up, then went he also up unto the feast, not openly, but as it were in secret.25Then said some of them of Jerusalem, Is not this he, whom they seek to kill?26But, lo, he speaketh boldly, and they say nothing unto him. Do the rulers know indeed that this is the very Christ?27Howbeit we know this man whence he is: but when Christ cometh, no man knoweth whence he is.28Then cried Jesus in the temple as he taught, saying, Ye both know me, and ye know whence I am: and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not.29But I know him: for I am from him, and he hath sent me.30Then they sought to take him: but no man laid hands on him, because his hour was not yet come.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on the nature of righteousness, faith, and trust in God’s plan. The first reading from the Book of Wisdom describes the wicked plotting against the just man, questioning his claims of closeness to God and resolving to test him through suffering and death. The second reading from John’s Gospel shows Jesus continuing his mission despite the growing threat against his life, teaching openly in the temple and affirming his divine origin. Both readings highlight the tension between those who walk in the light of truth and those who are blinded by malice and unbelief.
The context of these readings is deeply rooted in the struggle between good and evil. In Wisdom, the just man represents the persecuted righteous, whose very existence challenges the wicked to confront their own sinfulness. Similarly, in John’s Gospel, Jesus embodies the truth of God’s love and justice, which provokes both admiration and hostility. The readings remind us that living a life of integrity and faith often invites opposition, as it challenges others to confront their own shortcomings. Yet, both the just man and Jesus trust in God’s providence, knowing that their ultimate vindication lies not in human approval but in God’s plan.
These readings call us to reflect on how we live out our faith in daily life. Like the just man in Wisdom, we are called to stand firm in our commitment to God, even when it means facing ridicule or adversity. Like Jesus, we are invited to trust in God’s timing and purposes, even when the path ahead seems uncertain or fraught with danger. The moral lesson here is clear: true wisdom and strength come not from avoiding challenges but from embracing them with faith, knowing that God is always at work, even in the darkest moments. Let us strive to live with such courage and trust, allowing the light of God’s truth to guide us through the trials of our own lives.