💖 HOMILY - APRIL 5 💖

First Reading - Jeremiah 11:18-20

Gospel - John 7:40-52

Our journey of faith is often marked by moments of misunderstanding, opposition, and even rejection. The readings of today invite us to reflect on the challenges that come with standing for truth and righteousness, but also on the assurance that God is our refuge and strength.  

In the first reading, the prophet Jeremiah shares his personal experience of suffering and persecution. He describes himself as a "gentle lamb led to the slaughter," unaware of the plots against his life. His only crime was being faithful to God’s mission, proclaiming His word to a people who refused to listen. Despite this, Jeremiah does not seek revenge but entrusts his cause to God, knowing that He is the just judge who sees everything. This passage reminds us that those who walk in God's ways may face opposition, but they are never alone—God defends the innocent and stands with those who trust in Him.  

The Gospel presents a scene of division among the people regarding Jesus. Some recognize Him as the Prophet or the Messiah, while others doubt because of their preconceived notions about where the Messiah should come from. The Pharisees, blinded by their pride and rigid interpretation of the law, refuse to accept Jesus and dismiss Him without truly listening to His words. Even when Nicodemus, one of their own, suggests giving Jesus a fair hearing, they scornfully reject the idea. This passage reveals how prejudice and arrogance can prevent people from recognizing the truth.  

Dear friends, Jeremiah's experience and the Gospel scene remind us that faithfulness to God often invites misunderstanding and opposition. Like Jeremiah, we may sometimes feel like a "gentle lamb" surrounded by hostility, but we must remember that God is our strength. And like Nicodemus, we are called to seek the truth with an open heart, resisting the temptation to judge too quickly or be swayed by popular opinion.  

The reactions of the Pharisees challenge us to examine our own hearts. Do we allow pride or preconceived notions to block us from seeing God's work in unexpected ways? Are we open to truly listening to Jesus, or do we reject Him when His words challenge us?  

Let us pray for the grace to remain faithful to God, even in times of opposition. May we, like Jeremiah, entrust ourselves to God’s justice, and like Nicodemus, seek the truth with humility and openness.