Friday of the Fifth Week

Reflection

Today’s readings reveal the obvious truth that God’s people are not exempt from hard times. Seeking the assurance of “God with us,” as protector, shield, and refuge is reflected in Psalm 18, Jeremiah 20, and the Gospel reading from John chapter 10.

Jeremiah was called and reluctantly accepted his “prophet status” as an eighteen year old, and served as a voice for justice during the tumultuous time of Babylonian takeover from the Assyrian Empire, and the conquering of Jeremiah’s own nation of Judah. The first reading reflects how Jeremiah’s voice became unwelcomed by even family and friends. Jeremiah remained steadfast that God’s protection and righteousness was with him as a shelter in a storm, in every circumstance.

John’s Gospel reading indicates that Jesus was treated in exactly the same way by Pharisees and Scribes who constantly attempted to “catch Jesus” in violations of the Law. Jesus responds to His accusers of the crime of blasphemy in today’s Gospel by saying, “The Father is in me, and I in the Father.” This reference brings to mind the work of Blaise Pascal, C.S. Lewis, and Saint Augustine, who all made references to a “God-shaped space” existing in each of our hearts. In short, God’s love and goodness lives within each of us.

As faithful followers of Christ, we can confidently turn to our God in times of hardship. Beyond that, because God’s love and goodness is within each of us, we are able to serve others with shelter and refuge as our lives’ hardships are manifested. Our love of God and our love of neighbor can both grow in accordance with that great commandment.

Prayer

Loving God, help us to always remember the last words of Your Son Jesus to His disciples, “And I am with you always to the end of the age.” Amen.

Michael Samara, Academic Mentor

Scripture

First Reading: Jeremiah 20:10-13
Psalm 18:2-7
Gospel: John 10:31-42

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website