Daily Scriptures Reflection for 4/19/12

Scripture: Lectionary 270. 4/19/12. Acts 5:27-33. Psalm 34:2.9.17-18.19-20. John 3:31-36

Thursday's Readings

Most commentators conclude that John 3:31-36 is a summary statement that contains what Jesus and Nicodemus have shared with each other. The two “rabbis” represent the followers of Moses and the new call of Jesus for others to follow him.  Nicodemus is seeking and questioning. The summary helps us to listen again to what has been said. What has started as a dialogue now ends with just Jesus speaking in a monologue. We do not hear from Nicodemus until later in the events that will occur in the life of Jesus.  What about the summary of this last part of chapter 3? Here is what seems to be what is said by Jesus: Jesus is the one who has come from above and he witnesses to the Father (God) who has sent him (the Apostle).  The words and actions of the Father seen in Jesus attest to the truth. The Holy Spirit is involved in what is being revealed by Jesus. Those who believe will have eternal life and know the truth. We, in turn, as believers in Jesus need to daily listen to the words of Jesus and to internalize them so that when we witness to him what we say is true.  The Psalm and its verses tell us we must be like the Poor of the Lord (Yahweh) or the ‘Anawim who are humble and totally dependent upon God.  The Lord hears the cry of the poor. (Psalm 34:7). The first reading presents Peter center-stage and he witnesses to the Risen Lord. Again the Lucan theme of repentance and forgiveness are preached. We will hear of these two themes throughout Luke-Acts.  Our Easter faith learns from these readings the importance of witnessing to Jesus as the Savior who has risen from the dead and brings the kingdom to us here and now.  Amen. Alleluia.