Gospel Picture:
“So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, ‘How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.’
Jesus answered them, ‘I told you and you do not believe me. The works I do in my Father’s name testify to me….”
We can imagine this important conversation taking place on the Portico of Solomon. Jesus is speaking honestly to the Jews about his relationship with the Father (“The Father and I are one”) and his relationship with us. (“My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”)
Reflection:
What a “mystery” it was then…and what a “mystery” it remains today. It’s clear and yet not so clear. So what is John telling us in this Gospel?
Message:
I hear this message:
-- Follow Jesus in the Gospels and you will be doing the will of the Father. Whatever he teaches, you live and teach. Whatever his values are, make them your own.
-- Daily do the will of the Father as you best understand it in your life.
Action:
-- Pray and live the prayer that Jesus taught us in relationship with the Father: “Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven…”
-- Ask for the Father’s blessing: “Give us this day, our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass us.”
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, in the name of your beloved son, Jesus, guide our footsteps today. Help us do your will and keep us on the right path. Amen.
Another thought I found on the internet today: “Do not ask the Lord to guide your footsteps if you are not willing to move your feet.” (Anonymous)