THE GOD OF THE PRESENT - 03/30/23 (Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent)

John 8:58–59

Jesus said to them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, before Abraham came to be, I AM.” So they picked up stones to throw at him; but Jesus hid and went out of the temple area. 

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/033023.cfm

Blessed Thursday! Jesus Christ made strong claims such as that those who would believe in Him would not see death. This pertains not to physical death but to spiritual death. But, as the Jews were surprised by the words of Christ, they questioned Him even more. They asked whether Jesus was greater than Abraham and all other prophets who died. Because of this, our Lord Jesus told them, "Before Abraham came to be, I AM." The word "I AM" is a name used by God to identify and reveal Himself to Moses in Exodus 3:14. As such, before Abraham even existed, Jesus is and has always been God for eternity. In this passage, we see our Lord revealing Himself to the Pharisees since the Pharisees claimed that they were faithful followers of God. And yet, they picked up stones to throw it at Him. Sometimes, this is what we also do to our Lord. When we commit sins, it's as if we are pushing Him away from us. As seen in the gospel reading, Jesus hid and went out of the Temple area. This symbolizes how we may separate ourselves from God, who dwells within us, when we knowingly commit grave sins. 

Still, reflecting on the name of God gives us hope. Jesus Christ did not use the words, "I WAS" or "I WILL BE." He uses the present tense, "I AM." One reason is because when we think of God, we may dwell too much on our past or on our future. When some people remember their sins, they may be discouraged to turn back to God. Others are unable to think how they can serve the Lord better in the future. And yet, God is always with us in the present moment. If we realize how we've been materialistic and sinful in the past, let's trust in God's mercy and forgiveness. If we are too anxious of the future, let's abandon ourselves in the providence of God who can always bring greater even out of unfortunate events. All we need to do is to be present with God who is and has always been present with us. Even after the Pharisees threw stones at Jesus, He remained to be the "I AM", the God who's been merciful, loving and patient with them. Let's listen to His voice, come back to Him and resolve to do better because His love for us never changes.

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