Daily Gospel Reflection – Monday, April 8

John 8:12-20
Jesus spoke to them again, saying, «I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.»
So the Pharisees said to him, “You testify on your own behalf, so your testimony cannot be verified.”
Jesus answered and said to them, “Even if I do testify on my own behalf, my testimony can be verified, because I know where I came from and where I am going. But you do not know where I come from or where I am going.
You judge by appearances, but I do not judge anyone.
And even if I should judge, my judgment is valid, because I am not alone, but it is I and the Father who sent me.
Even in your law it is written that the testimony of two men can be verified.
I testify on my behalf and so does the Father who sent me.”
So they said to him, “Where is your father?” Jesus answered, “You know neither me nor my Father. If you knew me, you would know my Father also.”
He spoke these words while teaching in the treasury in the temple area. But no one arrested him, because his hour had not yet come.

Jesus is telling us that he is the Light and the Joy and the Compassion that we should see in others.  We should follow His example to lead the life we were created to lead.  We should reflect our faith as we see Light in others through Jesus.  As members of the St. Patrick community, it is our vision that we do reflect the Light of Christ and the Light of our faith.  If we follow the example set by Him, we will find peace, not darkness or despair.

We are not here to judge others.  We, as those who reflect our faith, are not to judge, but show compassion and see beneath the superficial layers.  We do not judge by materialistic appearances, but emphasize that we see the good in others and become compassionate, caring, faithful individuals, shedding the light of our faith.  When Jesus said that He is not alone but with the Father who sent Him, he is saying that we are only human, sent by God himself with a purpose.  We are only able to see the surface of others, but not what God has created us to be and that purpose for which God has planned for us.  We do not see the struggles, fears, homes, and dreams of others.  So do not judge what we do not see.  Have faith and follow His example.

By Mrs. Debbie Worrel, Faculty