By Richardson P. csc –
Readings: Num 21:4-9; Jn 8:21-30
The liturgy of the day invites me to believe and acknowledge Jesus as Lord and saviour of the world. In today’s gospel reading, Jesus tells the Jews that he was sent by the Father to share with
them the good news of the kingdom of God. He also refers to his crucifixion and resurrection when he tells them “when you have lifted up the Son of man then you will know that I am he.”
The words of Jesus in the gospel remind me that he is the true face of God’s love and mercy and has come to reveal the unconditional love of God through his death on the cross. Through his faithful and committed life, Jesus reveals to us that his only interest on earth was to do what pleased the Father.
At this time of the ongoing pandemic, Jesus invites me to look at the cross with faith in order to find joy, hope, and life in him. Jesus assures me that, ‘just as the Israelites were saved from death looking at the serpent erected on the pole, you and your people will be saved from your sins by looking at the cross on which I sacrifice my life.’
Jesus also calls me to value the cost of true discipleship through my words and deeds on this earth. As I have come to follow him, Jesus reminds me to face the crosses of my life with courage,
confidence, and perseverance.