Blessed Be Jesus Christ!

Gospel

Luke 13:31-35

31 Some Pharisees came to Jesus and said, “Go away, leave this area because Herod wants to kill you.” 32 He replied, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and I perform healings today and tomorrow, and on the third day I accomplish my purpose. 33 Yet I must continue on my way today, tomorrow, and the following day, for it is impossible that a prophet should die outside of Jerusalem.’ 34 “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how many times I yearned to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were unwilling! 35 Behold, your house will be abandoned. But I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”

Historical Background

The passage unfolds during Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, a city symbolic of both divine promise and prophetic rejection. Herod Antipas, the Roman-appointed tetrarch of Galilee, had already executed John the Baptist (Luke 3:19–20), making the Pharisees’ warning about Herod’s threat credible and ominous.

While often portrayed as antagonists, the Pharisees here seem to act protectively. Their warning may reflect genuine concern or a strategic move to deter Jesus from his mission. Luke’s Gospel occasionally shows Pharisees engaging with Jesus in complex ways (Luke 7:36; 14:1).

Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem echoes the fate of many prophets who were rejected or killed there. The city, central to Jewish worship and identity, tragically becomes a place of resistance to God’s messengers.

Theological Context

Jesus responds to Herod’s threat with resolve: “I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work” (v. 32). This signals that his death is not a disruption but the culmination of his mission—aligned with divine purpose, not political fear.

His acts of healing and exorcism are signs of the inbreaking kingdom (Luke 11:20), fulfilling Isaiah’s vision of liberation and restoration (Luke 4:18–19). Jesus’ journey is not just geographical—it’s theological, moving toward the cross and resurrection.

Jesus likens himself to a hen longing to gather her chicks—a rare and tender metaphor that reveals divine compassion and vulnerability. It contrasts sharply with Jerusalem’s unwillingness to receive grace.

Learning Lessons:

The desolation of the house symbolizes the spiritual emptiness that comes from turning away from God. It highlights the consequences of rejecting Jesus and His message. Despite the warning, there is a message of hope. Jesus indicates that there will be a time when people will recognize Him and welcome Him. 

This points to the possibility of redemption and restoration. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and accepting Jesus as the Messiah. True peace and fulfillment come from acknowledging Him and His authority.

The verse serves as a call to repentance and a reminder that the opportunity to turn to Jesus is available, but it should not be delayed. These lessons encourage us to reflect on our relationship with Jesus, to seek His presence in our lives, and to embrace the hope and redemption He offers. 

Reflection for the Day

Today’s passage invites us to reflect on courageous love and lament:

Jesus models steadfastness. Despite threats, he continues healing and proclaiming truth. In our own callings—whether spiritual, social, or personal—do we press forward with purpose, even when fear tempts retreat?

Jesus doesn’t condemn Jerusalem with rage but mourns its resistance. His grief is rooted in love. Can we hold space for sorrow when others reject grace, and still desire their restoration?

Like Christ, we’re called to journey toward places of pain—not with vengeance like Jonah, but with compassion that defies violence and fear. May we walk today with hearts full of mercy, eyes fixed on purpose, and a love that gathers even when rejected.

Blessed be Jesus Christ, our King, 

In His name, our hearts shall sing. 

With love and grace, He leads the way, 

Guiding us through night and day.

In every trial, He stands near, 

Wiping away each fallen tear. 

His light shines bright, a beacon true, 

In His embrace, we are made new.

Blessed be the Savior's name, 

Forevermore, His love proclaim. 

In joy and sorrow, peace and strife, 

He is the way, the truth, the life.

With grateful hearts, we lift our voice, 

In His presence, we rejoice. 

Blessed be Jesus Christ, our Lord, 

In Him, our souls are restored.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude and praise. Blessed be Your holy name, for You are our Savior and King! We thank You for Your boundless love and mercy, which sustain us each day.

Guide us, Lord, to walk in Your ways and to live according to Your will. Help us to spread Your light and love to all those we encounter. May our lives be a testament to Your grace and goodness.

In times of joy and in times of trial, we trust in Your divine plan. Strengthen our faith and fill our hearts with Your peace. Blessed be Jesus Christ, now and forever.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

HEROD'S DESIRE TO KILL JESUS / THE LAMENT OVER JERUSALEM

Luke 13:31-33 / 34-35

Gospel Acclamation:

Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.

Reflection Source

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

October 31, 2024, 6:06 AM

Christ of God

 

Then he said to them, 

“But who do you say that I am?” 

Peter said in reply, 

“The Christ of God.” 

(Luke 9:20)

The term “Christ of God” refers to Jesus Christ, acknowledging Him as the Anointed One sent by God. This title highlights Jesus’ divine mission and identity as the Messiah, the Savior of humanity. In the New Testament, Peter declares Jesus as “the Christ of God” in Luke 9:20, recognizing Him as the fulfillment of God’s promise to redeem mankind.

Jesus’ role as the Christ signifies His unique position and purpose, chosen by God to bring salvation and restore the relationship between God and humanity. This profound truth is central to Christian faith and reflects God’s immense love and grace.

In humble birth, a stable’s light,

The Christ of God, our guiding sight.

From heaven’s throne to earth below,

In love and grace, His mercy flows.

With hands that healed and words that taught,

He showed the way, the truth we sought.

In every act, compassion shone,

A life of love, His heart made known.

Upon the cross, He bore our sin,

A sacrifice, new life to win.

In darkest hour, hope’s light was cast,

Through death to life, salvation’s grasp.

Risen Lord, in glory bright,

You conquered death, eternal might.

With faith we walk, Your path we tread,

In every step, by You we’re led.

Christ of God, our Savior King,

To You our hearts in worship bring.

In every trial, joy, and strife,

Your love sustains, our source of life.

Christ of God,

In Your holy presence, we bow our hearts, Acknowledging Your divine grace and love. You, who walked among us, humble and pure, Guide us in Your ways, O Lord above.

Teach us to live with compassion and humility, To serve others as You have shown. May our lives reflect Your eternal light, And our hearts be forever Your own.

In moments of doubt, be our strength, In times of joy, our song of praise. Christ of God, our Savior and King, To You, our voices we raise.

Grant us the wisdom to follow Your path, The courage to stand firm in faith. With every step, may we honor Your name, and live for Your glory, all our days.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

PETER'S CONFESSION ABOUT JESUS

Luke 9:18-21

Gospel Acclamation

The Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. 

Gospel | Luke 9:18-22

18 Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They said in reply, “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, ‘One of the ancient prophets has arisen.’” 20 Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Christ of God.” 21 He rebuked them and directed themnot to tell this to anyone. 22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Who is Jesus?

Gospel

Luke 9:7-9

7 Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead;” 8 others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.” 9 But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him.

Historical Background

Herod Antipas the tetrarch was the son of Herod the Great and ruler of Galilee and Perea. He had previously ordered the beheading of John the Baptist and tetrarch hears of Jesus’ growing fame and is perplexed, wondering if John the Baptist has risen from the dead:

Jesus’ ministry was gaining widespread attention through miracles, teachings, and the commissioning of the Twelve, prompting speculation about His identity. The rumors—Elijah, a prophet of old, or John resurrected—reflect Jewish expectations of eschatological figures returning before the Messiah.

Theological Context

This passage sets the stage for Peter’s confession and the Transfiguration, emphasizing the question: “Who is Jesus?”

Herod’s confusion and curiosity may stem from guilt over John’s execution. His conscience is stirred, but not transformed.

The mention of Elijah and ancient prophets shows how Jesus is perceived within the prophetic tradition, yet He surpasses them all.

Learning Lessons

Herod hears of Jesus’ fame but does not seek Him in faith. Recognition without repentance leads to spiritual stagnation. His troubled thoughts remind us that guilt can be a gateway to grace—or a trap if ignored.

“The Echo in Herod’s Hall”

A whisper stirred the palace walls,  

A name that would not die—  

“Is it John?” the ruler asked,  

With haunted, hollow eye.

The prophets’ fire, Elijah’s cry,  

The ancient voice anew—  

But none could match the Nazarene  

Whose power pierced right through.

He healed the sick, He raised the dead,  

He walked where angels trod—  

Yet Herod feared, not followed Him,  

Though face to face with God.

O echo in the guilty heart,  

O fame that fails to save—  

The King of kings stood near to him,  

Yet Herod chose the grave.

Lord Jesus, 

You are the Light of the world, more than a prophet, more than a voice—You are the Word made flesh. 

Like Herod, I have heard of You, but unlike him, I want to know You. Let not guilt or fear keep me from Your grace. Stir my conscience, not to confusion, but to conviction. Reveal Yourself to me—not as rumor, but as Redeemer. May I not merely hear of Your works, but walk in Your ways.

You are the One who heals, forgives, and calls. I surrender my curiosity for commitment, my questions for communion. Be the King of my heart, now and forever. 

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

HEROD'S OPINION OF JESUS

Luke 9:7-9

Gospel Acclamation

I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father except through me.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Jesus - “The Carpenter’s Son”

 

Gospel
Matthew 13:54-58

54 Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue. They were astonished and said, “Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds? 55 Is he not the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother named Mary and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? 56 Are not his sisters all with us? Where did this man get all this?” 57 And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and in his own house.” 58 And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith.

Historical Background

Jesus returns to His hometown of Nazareth, a small Galilean village where He grew up. In Jewish tradition, teaching in the synagogue was a respected role. Yet, familiarity often bred skepticism—especially when someone from humble origins claimed divine authority.

The townspeople knew Jesus’ family and background. Their astonishment turned into offense, unable to reconcile His wisdom and miracles with His ordinary upbringing.

Theological Context

Jesus declares, “A prophet is not without honor except in his hometown and in his own house.” This echoes a recurring biblical theme—prophets often face rejection from those closest to them.

The people saw the carpenter’s son, not the Son of God. This passage highlights the tension between Jesus’ divine nature and His human familiarity. Faith is not just a response to miracles—it’s a condition for receiving them.

Learning Lessons

Familiarity can blind us. We may miss God’s work in people we think we know well. This calls for humility and openness.

Faith unlocks grace. Miracles are not just displays of power—they’re invitations to trust. Without faith, even divine power is resisted.

Rejection is part of mission. Like Jesus, we may face disbelief from those closest to us. But rejection doesn’t negate calling—it refines it.

“The Carpenter’s Son”

He walked the dusty roads of home,  

Where every face His childhood knew—  

Yet wisdom sparked in words He spoke,  

And mighty works the Spirit drew.

But hearts were closed, their minds confined,  

To what they thought they understood.  

They saw the boy, not Christ divine,  

And missed the grace for greater good.

A prophet scorned in native land,  

Still bore the truth with patient love.  

Though few believed, He did not bend—  

His mission flowed from God above.

Lord Jesus, 

Rejected in Your own town, You know the sting of disbelief and the ache of being misunderstood. Teach me to see beyond the surface— To recognize Your presence in the ordinary, to welcome Your truth even when it challenges me. Give me faith that unlocks Your grace, and courage to follow You when others turn away. Let my heart be fertile soil for Your word, and my life a witness to Your mercy and power. 

Amen.

Pericope:

V: Jesus, the Kingdom, and the Church

THE REJECTION AT NAZARETH

Matthew 13:54-58

Gospel Acclamation

The word of the Lord remains forever; this is the word that has been proclaimed to you.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

His Name Is John

Gospel
Luke 1:57-66, 80

Gospel Acclamation

You, child, will be called prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way.

57 When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. 58 Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. 59 When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, 60 but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” 61 But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” 62 So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. 63 He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. 64 Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. 65 Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. 66 All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be?” For surely the hand of the Lord was with him. 80 The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the desert until the day of his manifestation to Israel.

Luke 1:57–66, 80 captures the birth and early life of John the Baptist, a pivotal figure in salvation history. 

In twilight hush of ancient days, 

A cry arose, a song of praise. 

A womb once still, now stirred by grace— 

A child, a voice to light the race.

The neighbors came, their hearts amazed, 

At mercy’s work, their spirits raised. 

What joy, what awe the birth did bring, 

Foretold by Gabriel’s fiery wing.

No father's name upon the scroll, 

But “John,” the mark of heaven’s goal. 

And silence broke as speech returned— 

A tongue unbound, a faith that burned.

The people marveled, gripped with fear: 

What child is this? What path draws near?

 For in this babe, the echoes roll— 

Of prophets past, and heaven’s soul.

He grew apart, in desert wide, 

Where wind and Word walked side by side.

With spirit forged by sacred flame, 

He’d one day cry the Savior’s name.

Lord Jesus, 

You who were heralded by a voice in the wilderness, I thank You for the quiet ways You prepare salvation’s path in our lives. As You fulfilled Your word to Zechariah and Elizabeth, Fulfill Your promises in me, too.

Teach me to wait with patience, To believe even when I am silent, To obey even when it’s hard. Help me honor Your will above my comfort, and name what You are doing in my life with courage and joy.

Like John, May I grow strong in spirit, rooted not in applause, but in the solitude where You speak. Let my life point to Yours— Always.

In awe, I ask: What, then, will I become in Your hands? Shape me for Your purpose, and tune my voice to cry out Your grace.

Amen.

Historical Context

First-Century Jewish Culture: The events unfold in a devout Jewish household during the Second Temple period. Childbirth, naming, and circumcision were deeply communal and religious events. Naming a child after the father was customary, which is why the crowd was surprised when Elizabeth insisted on the name “John.”

Prophetic Silence: John's birth broke a 400-year prophetic silence since Malachi. His arrival signaled the renewal of divine communication and the unfolding of messianic expectations.

Roman Occupation: Politically, Judea was under Roman rule. While Rome dominated the headlines, Luke subtly shifts the focus to a small village where God was quietly initiating His redemptive plan—echoing how history often overlooks the truly transformative moments.

Theological Background

God’s Mercy and Faithfulness: Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy in old age echoes the stories of Sarah and Hannah, highlighting God’s mercy and covenant faithfulness. The community rejoices not just at a birth, but at a divine intervention (v. 58).

Divine Naming: The name “John” (Hebrew: Yohanan) means “Yahweh is gracious.” It wasn’t a family name, which emphasized that this child’s identity and mission were divinely appointed (vv. 60–63). Zechariah’s obedience in affirming the name restored his speech, symbolizing the power of faith and submission to God’s will.

Fear and Wonder: The people’s awe (v. 65) reflects a biblical pattern—when God acts, it stirs holy fear. Their question, “What then will this child become?” (v. 66), anticipates John’s prophetic role as the forerunner of the Messiah.

Spiritual Formation: Verse 80 notes that John “grew and became strong in spirit” and lived in the wilderness. This recalls the prophetic tradition of solitude and preparation, aligning him with figures like Elijah. The wilderness also symbolizes purification and readiness for divine mission.

Learning Lessons:

God’s Timing Is Perfect: Elizabeth gave birth “at the time God had promised” (v. 57). After long years of barrenness and silence, God fulfills His word. It reminds us that divine timing often doesn’t match our expectations, but it never fails.

Obedience Brings Restoration: Zechariah’s speech was restored only when he confirmed God’s will by writing, “His name is John” (v. 63). This teaches us that obedience opens the way for healing, restoration, and renewed praise.

Your Identity Comes from God, Not Tradition: Elizabeth and Zechariah went against cultural norms in naming their child. “John” wasn’t a family name, but it was God’s choice. Sometimes living your divine purpose means stepping outside of what’s expected or familiar.

Reverence Grows When God Moves: The neighbors were awestruck, and the story spread quickly (v. 65). When we witness God's work—especially something unexpected or miraculous—it stirs reverence and a sense of shared wonder.

Every Life Has a Purpose: The community asked, “What then will this child become?” (v. 66). John’s early life pointed toward a greater calling. Even before we fully understand it, God sees the purpose planted within us.

Preparation Often Happens in Quiet: Verse 80 tells us John “lived in the wilderness” and “became strong in spirit.” Growth doesn’t always happen in the spotlight. Sometimes solitude and stillness are God’s tools for preparing us for greater things.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Jesus Reveals the Father

 

"If you know Me, 

then you will also 

know My Father. 

From now on 

you do know Him 

and have seen Him." 

(John 14:7)

If you know me, then you shall see, 

The Father's love, His mystery. 

Through gentle words and works divine, 

His boundless grace in me does shine.

Philip asked, "Lord, show the way, 

Reveal the Father clear today." 

Yet Jesus spoke with patient tone, 

"If you've seen me, you're not alone."

The works I do, they are His hand, 

A love so deep, a truth so grand. 

For those who trust, great things unfold, 

With faith so strong, with hearts so bold.

And every prayer in earnest made, 

Shall find its place, shall not fade. 

For in His name, hope shall arise, 

To glorify the One Most High.

Lord Jesus, 

You have shown us the Father, you are the way, the truth, and the life. In You, we see the love of God, In Your words, we hear His voice, In Your works, we witness His power.

Strengthen our faith, O Lord, that we may trust in your presence, even when doubt clouds our hearts. Help us to believe that through You, we can do great things, not for our glory, but for yours.

Teach us to pray in Your name, with hearts aligned to your will, that whatever we ask may glorify the Father. Let our lives reflect Your light, so that others may know You through us.

May we walk in confidence, knowing you are in the Father, and the Father is in you. Draw us deeper intoyYour love and make us one with You forever.

Amen.

Pericope:

III: The Book of Glory

THE LAST SUPPER DISCOURSES

John 14:7-14

Gospel Acclamation

If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples and you will know the truth, says the Lord. 

Gospel | John 14:7-14

7 Jesus said to his disciples: “If you know me, then you will also know my Father. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” 8 Philip said to Jesus, “Master, show us the Father, and that will be enough for us.” 9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you for so long a time and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own. The Father who dwells in me is doing his works. 11 Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else, believe because of the works themselves. 12 Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father. 13 And whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it.”

Background

John 14:7-14 is part of Jesus' farewell discourse, spoken to His disciples during the Last Supper. In this passage, Jesus emphasizes His unity with the Father, reassuring His followers that knowing Him means knowing God. He also promises that those who believe in Him will do great works and that prayers made in His name will be answered.

Historical Context

Setting: This conversation takes place in the upper room in Jerusalem, just before Jesus' crucifixion. The disciples are troubled by His impending departure.

Jewish Expectations: Many Jews expected a political Messiah, but Jesus presents Himself as the way to the Father, focusing on spiritual salvation rather than earthly power.

Roman Influence: The Roman occupation of Judea created tension, and Jesus' teachings challenged both religious and political authorities.

Theological Significance: Jesus affirms His divine nature, stating that He and the Father are one. This was a radical claim, reinforcing His role as the mediator between God and humanity.

Key Themes

Jesus as the Revelation of God: He tells Philip, "Whoever has seen me has seen the Father" (John 14:9), highlighting His divine identity.

Faith and Works: Jesus assures His disciples that those who believe in Him will continue His mission and perform great deeds.

Power of Prayer: He promises that prayers made in His name will be answered, reinforcing the importance of faith and trust in God.

Learning Lessons

Knowing Jesus Means Knowing God : Jesus tells His disciples, “If you know me, then you will also know my Father” (John 14:7). This teaches us that understanding Jesus—His teachings, His love, and His actions—leads us to a deeper relationship with God.

Faith Overcomes Doubt : Philip asks Jesus to show them the Father, but Jesus responds, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). This reminds us that faith is about trusting in what has already been revealed rather than constantly seeking proof.

The Power of Belief: Jesus assures His followers that those who believe in Him will do great works—even greater than His own (John 14:12). This encourages us to live boldly, knowing that faith empowers us to make a meaningful impact.

Prayer in Jesus’ Name: Jesus promises that whatever is asked in His name will be granted (John 14:13-14). This highlights the importance of praying with faith and aligning our requests with God’s will.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Jesus is God!

Jesus said to them, 

“Amen, amen, I say to you, 

before Abraham came to be,

 I AM.” 

(John 8:58)

Jesus is God. The promise of eternal life comes through faith in Jesus and obedience to His teachings. It is important to have a personal relationship with God rather than just following religious rituals or traditions. Speaking the truth can often lead to persecution. This is the cost of discipleship and the challenges that we might face while standing up for the truth.

In the realm of faith where love is our rod,

Echoes the truth, resounding, "Jesus is God."

The promise of life, eternal and free,

Comes through faith in Him, for you and for me.

Obedience to His teachings, a path we tread,

In His footsteps, by His wisdom we're led.

More than rituals or traditions of the hand,

A personal relationship with God, we understand.

Speaking the truth, a task not light,

Often leads to persecution, to a challenging fight.

Yet, this is the cost, the discipleship's price,

In the face of adversity, His love will suffice.

So, stand up for truth, let your voice be heard,

Remember, you're guided by His Word.

Though challenges may come, in His strength, we're bold,

For we are part of His eternal fold.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You, acknowledging Your divinity. You are God, the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. We believe in Your promise of eternal life that comes through faith in You and obedience to Your teachings.

We understand the importance of having a personal relationship with You, Lord. We seek to know You more each day, not just through religious rituals or traditions, but through a genuine connection with You. We desire to experience Your presence in our lives, to hear Your voice, and to follow Your guidance.

Lord, we know that speaking the truth can often lead to persecution. We recognize that standing up for the truth is a part of our discipleship. We pray for Your strength and courage as we face these challenges. Help us to stand firm in our faith, to hold on to Your promises, and to trust in Your unfailing love.

We commit ourselves to You, Lord. We choose to follow You, to keep Your word, and to live according to Your will. We pray that our lives will glorify You and reflect Your love to the world.

In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Book of Signs

JESUS AND ABRAHAM

John 8:51-59

Gospel Acclamation

If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

Gospel | John 8:51-59

51 Jesus said to the Jews: “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever keeps my word will never see death.” 52 So the Jews said to him, “Now we are sure that you are possessed. Abraham died, as did the prophets, yet you say, ‘Whoever keeps my word will never taste death.’ 53 Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? Or the prophets, who died? Who do you make yourself out to be?” 54 Jesus answered, “If I glorify myself, my glory is worth nothing; but it is my Father who glorifies me, of whom you say, ‘He is our God.’ 55 You do not know him, but I know him. And if I should say that I do not know him, I would be like you—a liar. But I do know him and I keep his word. 56 Abraham your father rejoiced to see my day; he saw it and was glad. 57 So the Jews said to him, “You are not yet fifty years old and you have seen Abraham?” 58 Jesus said to them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, before Abraham came to be, I Am.” 59 So they picked up stones to throw at him; but Jesus hid and went out of the temple area.

Background:

This is a significant moment in the New Testament where Jesus is in dialogue with the Jews.

In this passage, Jesus makes a profound statement: “Whoever keeps my word will never see death.” This confuses the Jews, who point out that even Abraham and the prophets died. They question Jesus’ identity and His authority to make such a claim.

Jesus responds by saying that His glory comes from God, whom He knows. He further states that Abraham rejoiced to see His day. This statement further confuses the Jews, who point out that Jesus is not yet fifty years old and question how He could have seen Abraham.

Jesus responds with a profound declaration of His divinity: “Before Abraham came to be, I AM.” This statement is significant because “I AM” is the name God used to identify Himself to Moses in the burning bush (Exodus 3:14). By using this name, Jesus is claiming to be God, which is why the Jews picked up stones to throw at Him.

This passage highlights Jesus’ divinity, His eternal existence, and the promise of eternal life to those who keep His word.

Learning Lessons:

The passage John 8:51-59 from the Bible offers several lessons:

Eternal Life through Jesus: Jesus promises that whoever keeps His word will never see death. This teaches us about the promise of eternal life that comes through faith in Jesus and obedience to His teachings.

Jesus’ Divinity: Jesus’ statement “Before Abraham came to be, I AM” is a direct claim to divinity. This teaches us about Jesus’ identity as God, which is a central belief in Christianity.

The Importance of Knowing God: Jesus emphasizes the importance of truly knowing God. He criticizes the Jews for not knowing God despite claiming to be His followers. This teaches us about the importance of having a personal relationship with God rather than just following religious rituals or traditions.

Persecution for Truth: The Jews’ reaction to Jesus’ words shows that speaking the truth can often lead to persecution. 

This teaches us about the cost of discipleship and the challenges that one might face while standing up for the truth.

The Jews just do not get it. Jesus has been telling them for years that His mission is one that brings the gift of new life to the People of God. God is a God of the living, not the dead. Let us listen closely to this message so that we will never forget it. We need to keep our focus right or the devil will have an easy task deflecting us from the truth of God’s love and His will for our lives.

We cannot save ourselves or anyone else. We can only do what Jesus asks us to do and let Him be the Savior. Selfishness is the death of the Gospel. The world will be changed by people who turn up to change it, not by those who shrink into the background for fear of making a mistake.

Published:

March 21, 2024, 6:37 AM

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