1ST READING. NUM 21:4-9. PSALM. 101. GOSPEL. JN 8:21-30.
THEME: WHEN JESUS IS LIFTED UP
INTRODUCTION
The human nature is the same. After the fall of man, it is now a struggle to remain faithful. In the first reading, the people of Israel lost patience with God and Moses. As a result, they suffered the consequences of snakes bitten them. In their misery they cried to God and the Lord told Moses to fashion a bronze serpent. Anyone bitten should look up to it and will receive healing. This is a prefiguration of what God did in the new dispensation. In our sinfulness, we were bitten to death and we became helpless. God lifted up his Son on the Cross of Calvary for our redemption and restoration. In today’s Gospel the Lord told his people if I am lifted up you will know that I am He. Jesus was referring to his crucifixion on the cross of Calvary. It is in looking up to the Jesus that we receive the forgiveness of our sins. Like the people of old, we are still stubborn and rebellious. In our time, we need to look up to Jesus for reconciliation with God and with one another. In what ways is Jesus lifted up today?
Jesus is lifted up today at the Eucharistic celebration and Adoration. Jesus is also lifted up when we follow him faithfully and do his will. Jesus is lifted up today, when we forgive our enemies. We lift up Jesus today by promoting his kingdom. The kingdom of love, of righteousness, of meekness, of justice and integrity. The kingdom of mercy and compassion. The kingdom of faith, hope and charity. When we lift up Jesus in this way, many will come to believe in him. Many will recognize him in us. The duty and responsibility of lifting up Jesus is now on the shoulders of believers. Let us be true to who we are. Let us ask the Lord to heal us of our wounds and give us the grace of faithfulness. May the Lord deliver us from all forms of rebellious spirit. Amen.
