Daily Readings - Fri Apr 04 2025
John
1After this, Jesus went around in Galilee, purposely staying away from Judea because the Jews there were waiting to take his life.2But when the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles was near,10However, after his brothers had left for the Feast, he went also, not publicly, but in secret.25At that point some of the people of Jerusalem began to ask, "Isn't this the man they are trying to kill?26Here he is, speaking publicly, and they are not saying a word to him. Have the authorities really concluded that he is the Christ?27But we know where this man is from; when the Christ comes, no one will know where he is from."28Then Jesus, still teaching in the temple courts, cried out, "Yes, you know me, and you know where I am from. I am not here on my own, but he who sent me is true. You do not know him,29but I know him because I am from him and he sent me."30At this they tried to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him, because his time 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.