Daily Divine Word:
March 20, 26 – Friday, Fourth Week of Lent: Values neglected, Vices Embraced
Wisdom 2:1a, 12-22; John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30
Values neglected, vices embraced: One of the common expectations is that the good and virtuous people are an inspiration and example to follow. However, our life experiences tell us the opposite. The just people are often threatened and are despised. The first reading from the book of wisdom reflects on the cynical mindset of the unrighteous people who despise the righteous for opposing their wicked and unjust ways. They even plot to destroy and annihilate the righteous. Because the righteous man is an inconvenience to evil ways. Values are neglected and vices are embraced voluntarily. People who stand for truth and fight for justice are considered obnoxious and irrelevant. The godly people go through test constantly; they have to fight to be just. There is an innate joy in being virtuous. The ungodly do not know the joy of being good.
Courageous presence: The Gospel describes a tense moment when Jesus could no longer move about openly because the authorities were seeking to arrest him. They opposed him because his message challenged and unsettled them. No matter how many miracles Jesus performed, how inspiring his teaching was, though he reconciled sinners, made the lame walk, the blind see, the deaf hear and drove out the demons, yet the authorities respond with envy, anger and resentment. Good people and goodness are often condemned. Truth is often difficult to accept, and those who resist it may try to silence it. Yet Jesus does not retreat. Instead, he moves prudently and continues to preach courageously. He is not driven by fear but overwhelmed by the presence of God.
Our Takeaway
- People who stand for truth and fight for justice are considered obnoxious and irrelevant. The godly people go through test constantly; they have to fight to be just.
- Today, values are neglected and vices are embraced voluntarily. However, it is the righteous who enjoy happiness of life.
- There is an innate joy in being virtuous. The ungodly do not know the joy of being good.
- Jesus was intimidated. Yet he does not retreat. Instead, he moves prudently and continues to preach courageously. The presence of one good person can make a world of difference.
Wilson SVD
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