Wednesday of the Fifth Week
Reflection
“We came. We saw. We conquered.” It is a phrase most of us are familiar with and is often seen on sports team’s t-shirts or bumper stickers. In today’s reading, we see, in both King Nebuchadnezzar and initially in the group of Jews Jesus speaks with, this same attitude of superiority, of conquering by their own hand, and of living by their own rules.
In the reading from Daniel, we hear how King Nebuchadnezzar looks to enforce the worshiping of a false, golden god statue. In the Gospel, we hear a group of Jews tell Jesus that they “have never been enslaved by anyone” and that they even plan to kill Jesus because His Word threatens their current lifestyles.
Yet Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, and Jesus step in to remind us that this is not God’s way. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse King Nebuchadnezzar, humble themselves before God, put their faith in Him, and are thus protected in the blazing fire. In a similar way, the reading from John’s Gospel reminds us that we are “not born of fornication, [but] we have one Father, God.”
It is the actions and revelations of these protagonists that make us wonder – should we not be wearing different t-shirts? Instead of “Came, Saw, & Conquered,” might we consider wearing shirts that read – “We were sent. We humble ourselves. We serve.” Would this not remind each of us, and those around us, that we were sent here to Earth by the one true God? Could it not remind us to humbly approach God, and one another? And should it not remind us daily that we are here to serve God through service to others?
Prayer
Dear God, help me to remember that I came from You and I will return to You. Teach me how to humble myself as Your Son humbled himself on the cross. Assist me as I serve others in service to You.
Chad Ahern, ‘99, M‘12, Donor Relations Officer
Scripture
First Reading: Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95
Psalm: Daniel 3:52-56
Gospel: John 8:31-42
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