John 5:31-47

Reflection

Jesus speaks about all the ways in which his claim to divine Sonship has been proven – through John the Baptist, God, the Scriptures, and Moses. Yet the people refuse to believe in him, for he says they seek glory from others, not God. Jesus also says they seek eternal life from the Scriptures, but do not understand that the Scriptures bear witness to Jesus.

Jesus is very firm in this passage. He calls out all of us for unbelief, selfish ways, and refusal to see the truth before us – Jesus himself. When we see the greatness of God displayed before us, do we refuse to truly believe? Do we doubt Jesus’ authority and love for us when something in our lives goes wrong?

The Lord is constantly revealing himself to us – through other people, small miracles, interiorly, healing, Scripture. He gives us these signs as ways to show his love and constant nearness to us. Do not reject the Lord. He comes to testify to the Father, who desires to be united with us for all eternity.

Saint of the Day

St. Richard of Wyche: 1197 – 1253

“Thanks be to thee, my Lord, Jesus Christ, for all the benefits thou hast given me, for all the pains and insults thou has borne for me. O most merciful Redeemer, friend and brother, may I know thee more clearly, love thee more dearly, and follow thee more nearly, day by day.”   Prayer written by St. Richard