First Reading - Exodus 32:7-14
Gospel - John 5:31-47
The first reading highlights three key elements: the sins of the people, the power of Moses' intercession, and God's mercy. In Moses’ absence, the Israelites grew impatient and pressured Aaron into making a golden calf, falling into idolatry. Seeing their deviation from true worship, Moses interceded for them, pleading for God’s mercy. His closeness with God and willingness to pray for the people turned God's righteous anger into tenderness and forgiveness. This shows us the power of intercessory prayer and how God, in His great mercy, listens to the pleas of His faithful ones.
In the Gospel, Jesus defends His identity as the Messiah in response to the doubts of the Jews. They demanded proof, citing Deuteronomy’s law that requires two or three witnesses to validate a claim. Jesus presents four undeniable testimonies to His divine mission:
1) John the Baptist, who proclaimed Him as the Lamb of God.
2) His miracles, which could only be performed by divine power.
3) God the Father, who affirmed Jesus at His baptism and Transfiguration.
4) The Scriptures, where the Law and the Prophets foretold His coming.
Yet, despite this, the Jews remained blind to the truth because of their hardened hearts. Jesus identifies four reasons for their disbelief: their lack of love for God, their pursuit of human glory, their biased interpretation of Scripture, and their failure to truly believe in Moses and the prophets.
Dear friends, impatience in faith led the Israelites to idolatry, and the doubts of the Jews led them to reject Jesus. These examples remind us that faith is a journey—it requires patience and perseverance. Through patience, our faith matures, and through steadfastness, we overcome doubts and uncertainties.
Moses, in the first reading, serves as a model of intercession. Just as he prayed for his people, we too must pray for those who struggle with faith—those who have turned to skepticism, atheism, or unbelief. Our prayers can help guide them back to God, just as Moses’ prayer brought mercy upon Israel.
Jesus, in today’s Gospel, calls us to be living testimonies of faith. Many around us do not yet believe in Christ, but through our words, actions, and way of life, we can bear witness to Him. Our faith should not remain hidden; it should shine as a beacon that leads others to God.
Let us pray for the grace to deepen our faith daily and to be faithful witnesses of Christ in the world.
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