Monday of the Fifth Week

Reflection

Today’s first reading from the Old Testament is a story of a “very beautiful and God-fearing woman”, named Susanna. We might choose to identify with Susanna as she is unjustly accused of adultery and as a result is sentenced to death. Susanna felt helpless as her accusers were elders and powerful men in their society. Susanna felt trapped. Susanna did not give up hope; she prayed. 

However, the other main character is Daniel. Daniel is described as a young boy. God answered Susanna’s prayer through Daniel. He spoke up and stood firm, insisting on fairness and truth. Because of him, justice prevailed.

There are many people today, young and old, that are feeling helpless, sad, powerless, frustrated and angry as a result of the pandemic, political atmosphere, the economy, and world events. Let us take Daniel’s perspective. What can we do? How can we listen to our inner voices to restore truth, integrity, to have non-judgmental attitudes, and a true respect for each and every individual?

In both the first reading and the Gospel, Daniel and Jesus truly bring light and healing and compassion to the situation. It sounds like a tall order for us, but the responsorial is a wonderful reminder that we are not in this alone:  “Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.”

The readings are an appropriate segue into Holy Week. How could Jesus not have felt angry or powerless when accused by the Pharisees? He did not, but answered, “I know where I came from and where I am going.” Let us focus on those words. Where have we come from and where are we going.

Prayer

Dear Lord, help me to be like Daniel and stand up for and insist that respect, fairness and integrity prevail in our world. I ask Your help in this endeavor.

Barb Gaida, M’01, Member of the Worshipping Community

Scripture

First Reading: Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62 or 13:41c-62

Psalm 23:1-6

Gospel: John 8:12-20

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website