Greetings on this the Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent
Readings: Genesis 17:3-9; Psalm 105:4-5, 6-7, 8-9; John 8:51-59
Summary
Jesus hid and went out of the temple area (Jn 8:59b).
To be clear Jesus had no fear of those attempting to kill him. You can use: But he passed through the midst of them and went away (Lk 4:30) as an example of divine confidence in the face of opposition, if you will.
You can also rest assured that every action Jesus takes is for the salvation of souls.
So the action of Jesus ‘hiding’ or ‘passing through’ are not signs either of indifference but of deep pastoral concern for those who are in conflict with him.
So they picked up stones to throw at him (Jn 8:59a).
So they again picked up stones to throw at him (Jn 10:31).
Just a few days ago, in a similar way, Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her (Jn 8:7b).
Divine love helps us avoid the deeper errors. It’s not about the rock, it about the hardness of the heart.
If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts (Psalm 95:8).
What should we hear?
When Abram prostrated himself, God spoke to him: “My covenant with you is this: you are to become the father of a host of nations (Gen 17:3-4).
The Lord remembers his covenant for ever (Ps 105:8b).
Recalling
Recall the wondrous deeds that he has wrought, his portents, and the judgments he has uttered (Ps 105:5).
The Lord remembers his covenant for ever (Ps 105:8a).
Reflection
Drop the rock and melt the heart.
Personal Reflection
May my hands not hold rocks to throw but palms outstretched to give and receive.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/032626.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry