First reading Jeremiah 11:18-20
‘Let us cut him off from the land of the living, so that his name may be quickly forgotten’
Responsorial Psalm 7:2-3,9-12
O Lord, my God, in you I take refuge.
O Lord, my God, in you I take refuge;
save me from all my pursuers and rescue me,
Lest I become like the lion’s prey,
to be torn to pieces, with no one to rescue me.
O Lord, my God, in you I take refuge.
Do me justice, O Lord, because I am just,
and because of the innocence that is mine.
Let the malice of the wicked come to an end,
but sustain the just,
O searcher of heart and soul, O just God.
O Lord, my God, in you I take refuge.
A shield before me is God,
who saves the upright of heart;
A just judge is God,
a God who punishes day by day.
O Lord, my God, in you I take refuge.
Gospel John 7:40-52
The Law does not allow us to pass judgement on a man without hearing him
Trust and courage
“…I, for my part, was like a trustful lamb being led to the slaughterhouse, not knowing the schemes they were plotting against me…” (1st reading). The prophet Jeremiah was distressed by the betrayal of his friends and neighbours. Recognising his naivety, he turned to God, saying, “But you, Lord of hosts, who pronounce a just sentence, who probe the loins and heart, let me see the vengeance you will take on them, for I have committed my cause to you.” Rather than seeking revenge, Jeremiah trusted God’s protection and justice. Today, let us follow the example of the prophet Jeremiah by trusting in God and believing that He will take care of us, even in difficult moments.
In the Gospel, Nicodemus defended Jesus before the religious leaders, arguing that He deserved a fair hearing before judgment. It took courage to challenge the consensus of one’s peers. May we not rush to judge or condemn others simply to fit in with the prevailing view. Instead, may we continue to seek the truth and remain open to recognising the goodness in others.
Reflective question:
How do today’s readings inspire me to stay faithful to God’s ways at all times?
Acknowledgment: Reflections are based on “Prayer for Living: The Word of God for Daily Prayer Year C” by Sr Maria Jose FMVD.