Saturday of the Fourth Week

Reflection

Today’s readings remind me of the importance of putting my trust in God. Both the first reading from Jeremiah and John’s Gospel speak to times where the faithful doubted or questioned the Lord. In the Gospel reading, there is confusion amongst the guards as to who the man from Galilee is and furthermore they doubt that he is a prophet, let alone the Christ.  They even tell the Pharisees, “Never has anyone spoken like this man.” Clearly Jesus has gotten through to some of the guards. This is a reminder to all of us that we need to be open to Jesus’ voice in whatever way it presents itself in our daily lives.  The verse before the Gospel really sums up the message of the Scripture readings today, “Blessed are they who have kept the word with a generous heart and yield a harvest through perseverance.” This is a reminder that the faithful will be rewarded, but it also takes time and perseverance. The Gospel ends with the Pharisees telling the guards to go to Galilee and “Look and see that no prophet arises from Galilee.” This is another reminder to be open to God’s call and help others be open as well.

Prayer

Lord, help me keep the word with a generous heart and follow You wherever You may lead.

Matt Seklecki, ’11, M’17, Senior Associate Director of Admission

Scripture

First Reading: Jeremiah 11:18-20

Psalm 7:2-3, 9b-12

Gospel: John 7:40-53

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website