Daily Readings - Mon Apr 08 2019
John
12When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."13The Pharisees challenged him, "Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid."14Jesus answered, "Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going. But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going.15You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one.16But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me.17In your own Law it is written that the testimony of two men is valid.18I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me."19Then they asked him, "Where is your father?"20"You do not know me or my Father," Jesus replied. "If you knew me, you would know my Father also." He spoke these words while teaching in the temple area near the place where the offerings were put. Yet no one seized him, because his time had not yet come.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter powerful narratives that illuminate the triumph of truth and justice over deception and adversity. The story of Susanna from the Book of Daniel presents a tale of integrity and divine deliverance. Falsely accused by two corrupt elders, Susanna faces a dire situation, yet her unwavering faith in God leads to her salvation through the wisdom of Daniel. This narrative, part of the deuterocanonical texts, underscores the themes of justice and the intervention of the divine in human affairs.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus proclaims Himself as the "light of the world," emphasizing His divine authority and the truth He embodies. The Pharisees question His testimony, but Jesus affirms the validity of His words, supported by the Father. This passage highlights the conflict between human judgment and divine truth, inviting us to trust in God's wisdom over earthly perceptions.
Both readings converge on the theme of truth and justice. Susanna's story illustrates the failure of human justice and the triumph of divine intervention, while Jesus embodies the divine truth that transcends human understanding. Together, they call us to stand firm in our faith, trusting that God's truth will prevail despite life's challenges.
In our daily lives, we may face situations where our integrity is tested or we encounter unjust judgment. Like Susanna, we are called to remain steadfast, trusting in God's justice. Like Jesus, we are to embody His truth, confident in His divine plan. The moral lesson is clear: integrity and faith are our guiding principles, and God's truth will ultimately triumph. Let us, therefore, walk in the light of Christ, trusting in His divine justice and truth.