Exodus 32:7-14; John 5:31-47
In today’s gospel, John presents to us the scene in the Court: Jesus has to defend Himself et convince his accusers by calling on to witnesses. Surprisingly, while he was able to define Himself and say openly who HE IS, Jesus points to the works He does as revealing his identity and his origin. He says, “The works that the Father gave me to accomplish, these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me.” These words echo Jesus’ other
saying that a “tree is known by its fruit” (Matthew 12:33).
Today, as He stands in court to reveals that He is the Son of God, Jesus reminds us that our actions reveal our identity more than our words. He calls us to discipleship and to be a part in the work of the transformation of the world. It is precisely for that end that He chose us, as he says: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that you fruit should abide” (John 15:16). His works to which he points are entrusted to and to be accomplished in, by and through the Church whose members we are.
As disciples, we are appointed to radiate the light and the mercy of Christ amidst the challenges of this world and in spite of our own brokenness; for like with Saint Paul, Jesus assures us that “My grace is sufficient for you” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Sometimes, people identify the anger, the bitterness, the prejudice, and the constant criticism that they see in some members of the Church with the Church itself. One thing is true though: they deserve better than that from us. They deserve to see Christ. Jesus says that He has a witness greater than John the Baptist to speak on His behalf and those are His works, that is, you and me.
Let us continue to pray for one another as we strive to Courageously Live the Gospel.
Fr. Emery