Daily Catholic Lectio. Mon, 11 Mar 2024. Life in him

Daily Catholic Lectio

Mon, 11 March 2024

Monday of the Fourth Week of Lent

Isaiah 65:17-21. John 4:43-54

Life in him

John, speaking about Jesus Christ, writes in the prologue of his gospel, “In him was life, and the life was the light of men” (cf. Jn 1:4). John calls the miracles of Jesus ‘signs’ and records ‘seven’ signs. In today’s gospel reading, we hear about the second sign of Jesus.

Through his first sign of changing water into wine at Cana, Jesus revealed that fullness was in him, and through his second sign, he revealed that life was with him.

An official comes to Jesus with a plea to heal his son. To the one who said, ‘Come,’ Jesus says, ‘Go.’ Jesus changes the direction of his plea. On his way back home, the official finds his son alive.

The present sign reveals three things: (a) Jesus had authority over diseases and death; (b) Jesus could work miracles at a distance; and (c) Faith is a prerequisite to experiencing miracles, and through miracles faith is reinforced.

In the first reading, the Lord God, through Prophet Isaiah, says that he is making ‘new heaven and new earth.’ He promises the people of Israel a life free from diseases, a life filled with peace and longevity.

These two readings convey the same message: In God there is life, and anyone who comes to God has life.

What do these readings tell us, who are in Lent?

(a) As we are expecting to celebrate Easter, we must remember that our God is the God of life. As death had no control over Jesus, it won’t have control over us either. Anyone who is in Christ is always with life.

(b) When we are with the God of life, we must get rid of the factors of death. The official at Capernaum, who came with hesitation and fear, returns with faith and consolation.

(c) Our presence must give life to others. Everyone who is close to us must have his or her life restored and rejuvenated.

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‘The journey towards the Ordinary Jubilee 2025 is the journey towards Jesus. The journey towards Jesus is the journey towards us. As Jesus sent the official back home, he continues to send us back home. On our way home, we find comfort, faith, and life.’ (Jubilee A. D. 2025, bite 51)

Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi

Archdiocese of Madurai

Missionary of Mercy