Daily Readings - Sat Apr 02 2022
Jeremiah
18And the LORD hath given me knowledge of it, and I know it: then thou shewedst me their doings.19But I was like a lamb or an ox that is brought to the slaughter; and I knew not that they had devised devices against me, saying, Let us destroy the tree with the fruit thereof, and let us cut him off from the land of the living, that his name may be no more remembered.20But, O LORD of hosts, that judgest righteously, that triest the reins and the heart, let me see thy vengeance on them: for unto thee have I revealed my cause.
John
40Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet.41Others said, This is the Christ. But some said, Shall Christ come out of Galilee?42Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?43So there was a division among the people because of him.44And some of them would have taken him; but no man laid hands on him.45Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought him?46The officers answered, Never man spake like this man.47Then answered them the Pharisees, Are ye also deceived?48Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him?49But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed.50Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,)51Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth?52They answered and said unto him, Art thou also of Galilee? Search, and look: for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.53And every man went unto his own house.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on trust, judgment, and the courage to stand by our faith. The first reading from Jeremiah depicts the prophet's unwavering trust in God's justice amidst betrayal. Jeremiah, likening himself to a meek lamb led to slaughter, expresses his reliance on God's just judgment, even when faced with adversity from his own people. This passage underscores Jeremiah's deep faith and his acceptance of God's plan, despite the challenges he faces.
The Gospel from John presents a scene of division and judgment. Jesus' teachings spark debate among the crowd and the Pharisees, with some recognizing him as the Prophet or the Christ, while others question his origins. The Pharisees' dismissal of the crowd as ignorant and their refusal to consider Jesus' message highlight the theme of preconceived notions and closed-mindedness. Nicodemus's cautious defense of Jesus serves as a reminder to approach judgment with fairness and openness.
Both readings relate through the themes of opposition and trust in divine justice. Jeremiah's trust in God's justice is mirrored in Jesus' steadfast commitment to his mission, despite the discord he provokes. These narratives encourage us to remain faithful and courageous in the face of adversity, trusting that God's justice will prevail.
In our daily lives, we may encounter situations where standing up for what is right leads to opposition. Like Jeremiah and Jesus, we are called to trust in God's justice and not be swayed by fear or adversity. This is a call to steadfastness and faith, reminding us to seek truth and righteousness, even when it is challenging. Let us embrace this moral lesson, trusting in God's plan and standing courageously in our faith.