SEEING THE PRESENCE OF GOD IN OTHERS - 03/31/23 (Friday of the Fifth Week of Lent)

John 10:31-33

The Jews picked up rocks to stone Jesus.

Jesus answered them, "I have shown you many good works from my Father.

For which of these are you trying to stone me?" The Jews answered him, "We are not stoning you for a good work but for blasphemy. You, a man, are making yourself God." 

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/033123.cfm

Blessed Friday! We see in many passages the miracles performed by our Lord Jesus Christ. Many people saw the works of Jesus, but not everyone had the same reaction. Some believed in Him while some of the Jews and the Pharisees picked up rocks to throw at Him. Why is this the case? What's different between the two groups? Some of the Jews saw the miracles of Jesus Christ, but when they listened to His words, they were offended. They were offended because the gospel was contrary to their sinful lifestyle. They were focused on themselves that they were unable to see the presence of God. Meanwhile, the followers of Christ saw His works as signs of God. As such, when they heard the gospel, they believed in Jesus and repented of their sins. 

God is calling us to see His presence and His works in our lives. It's not just about our personal relationship with Him, but it's also about seeing the goodness of God in the life of other people. However, pride can be an obstacle for us. When we are focused on our own selves, on our own achievements, and on our own riches, we may end up belittling other people. Why is this the case? Why is it difficult to be humble? One reason is that we may not see that the goodness of other people, even in their little deeds, is a reflection of the goodness of God. These little deeds are miracles from God so that we may see His love and His presence. Are there times that we always look at the mistakes of other people? Are there times that we think we are better and greater than others? This is an invitation from God for us to look at Him more than we look at ourselves, and it is only then that we can know ourselves even more with the light of God. This is an invitation to see the signs and miracles that God performs in the midst of His people. 

Amen +

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Fasting and Abstinence during Lent:

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/resource/56337/fasting-and-abstinence-during-lent

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Summary and Defense of Catholic Teachings:

https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth