Today’s readings seemed a bit overwhelming and confusing as I reflected and tried to understand the message.  I’ve concluded that the message here is rather simple. Actions speak louder than words. 

Jesus said to the Jews:
“If I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is not true.
But there is another who testifies on my behalf,
and I know that the testimony he gives on my behalf is true.
You sent emissaries to John, and he testified to the truth.
I do not accept human testimony,
but I say this so that you may be saved.
He was a burning and shining lamp,
and for a while you were content to rejoice in his light.
But I have testimony greater than John’s.
The works that the Father gave me to accomplish,
these works that I perform testify on my behalf
that the Father has sent me.

Jesus essentially states that one’s own words are not considered truthful by others.  Witnesses were an important piece of Jewish proceedings.  Jesus reminds the Jews that HIS most important testimony is the accomplishment of the works of the Father. 

This teaching is easily translated to our lives today.  It’s one thing to preach beliefs and what we perceive to value.  It’s nice if another can testify to this.  Most importantly, we understand what one truly holds dear by their actions.