Lenten reflection, day 33

Scripture readings for today: Jeremiah 20:10-13; Psalm 18; John 10:31-42

Today’s Gospel opens with a group of people picking up stones to throw at Jesus and ends with another group of people believing in Him. To which group do you belong? The one wanting to kill Him? Or the one that listens to Him and accepts His message?

In one way or another, both of these groups followed Jesus throughout His life. At His birth King Herod sought His death, while the Magi bowed down and paid Him homage. During His pubic ministry the scribes and Pharisees plotted to have Him arrested and executed, while His disciples sat at His feet and listened to His life-giving words.

At the end of His earthly sojourn, Pilate ordered His scourging and crucifixion, while Mary and the beloved disciple wept in sorrow at the foot of His cross. Even after His death these two groups pursued Him in the members of His body, the Church. Some sought the death of His followers. Others went out to make disciples of all nations.

To which group do you belong? As Holy Week approaches, let us examine our hearts and ask ourselves whether our words say one thing but our thoughts and actions quite another.

Father Dennis Billy, C.Ss.R.
Wynnewood, Pa.

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