Daily Readings - Sat Mar 16 2024
Jeremiah
18Because the LORD revealed their plot to me, I knew it, for at that time he showed me what they were doing.19I had been like a gentle lamb led to the slaughter; I did not realize that they had plotted against me, saying, "Let us destroy the tree and its fruit; let us cut him off from the land of the living, that his name be remembered no more."20But, O LORD Almighty, you who judge righteously and test the heart and mind, let me see your vengeance upon them, for to you I have committed my cause.
John
40On hearing his words, some of the people said, "Surely this man is the Prophet."41Others said, "He is the Christ."42Still others asked, "How can the Christ come from Galilee? Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David's family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?"43Thus the people were divided because of Jesus.44Some wanted to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him.45Finally the temple guards went back to the chief priests and Pharisees, who asked them, "Why didn't you bring him in?"46"No one ever spoke the way this man does," the guards declared.47"You mean he has deceived you also?" the Pharisees retorted.48"Has any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him?49No! But this mob that knows nothing of the law--there is a curse on them."50Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who was one of their own number, asked,51"Does our law condemn anyone without first hearing him to find out what he is doing?"52They replied, "Are you from Galilee, too? Look into it, and you will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee."53Then each went to his own home.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that highlight the challenges faced by God's messengers and the reactions they provoke. The first reading from Jeremiah portrays the prophet as an innocent lamb led to slaughter, revealing his persecution and betrayal. Jeremiah, called by God, faces opposition for speaking uncomfortable truths, a common fate of prophets whose messages often unsettle the status quo.
The Gospel from John presents Jesus amidst a divided crowd, with some hailing Him as the Prophet or Messiah, while others question His origins. The Pharisees' skepticism and the mention of Nicodemus defending Jesus illustrate the growing tension and plotting against Him. Both readings share a common thread: the rejection of God's messengers due to truths that challenge existing beliefs.
In our daily lives, we may face similar dilemmas when standing up for what is right, encountering resistance in our communities or workplaces. These readings remind us to remain steadfast in our faith, trusting in God's justice. The moral lesson here is one of integrity and trust—despite misunderstanding or betrayal, we must follow God's will, knowing He will handle justice in His time. Let us draw strength from these stories, staying faithful and trusting in God's plan, even when met with opposition.