Saturday of the Fourth Week of Lent
John 7: 40-53
He Draws Close Whomever He Loves

In today’s Gospel, we see a divided crowd. Some believe Jesus is the Prophet or the Christ; others reject him because he doesn’t fit their expectations. The religious leaders dismiss Him with arrogance, convinced they alone understand God’s ways. They scorn the ordinary people as ignorant. However, the truth of God’s love cannot be constrained by human pride.

Jesus’ embrace of sinners, his acceptance of the marginalised, and his mighty signs and acts—particularly raising Lazarus—posed a threat to the ruling class’s authority. They had monopolised access to God, but Jesus shattered that control. He demonstrated that God’s love extends to everyone, not just the elite. However, the more they attempted to stifle him, the more followers he attracted. Jesus acts as a magnet, drawing to him everyone he loves—and his love encompasses us all.

Even the temple guards, sent to arrest him, were captivated by his words. Nicodemus, once afraid to be seen with Jesus, now begins to step into the light. Later, we will see him stand at the foot of the Cross to care for Jesus’ body. The courage to follow Christ grows in those who open their hearts to him.

This drama continues today, as those in authority often disregard or target believers. However, history demonstrates that dictators eventually collapse, and empires decline. Ultimately, it is only Christ and His Church that endure, providing life to the world.

Today, Jesus invites us to live in truth—not as “know-it-all’s,” nor as judges of others—but as people close to His heart. Are we humbling enough to say, “I don’t know,” and allow God to teach us? Are we prepared to stop judging and start loving?

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Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025