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Reflect on the challenge of discerning truth in an age of AI and the importance of focusing on God's Word for spiritual growth.


Today's Gospel: John 7:40-53

We have officially entered the age of artificial intelligence, commonly referred to as AI. I’ll admit, my inquisitive mind was excited to try it out and watch my photographs come to life. As time goes by, however, I am finding it difficult to judge between reality and AI. Most often, I am left doubting that a particular photo or video is real. In this new realm of AI, how can any of us be certain that what our eyes are beholding is true?
 
Our reading today is similar in that the identity of Jesus is being challenged. Some have faith enough to know for certain that Jesus is the Messiah, while others need to be convinced. Common sense will tell us that a video of three black bears jumping on a trampoline is most likely AI-generated. I wonder how much common sense went into the thinking of those in Jesus’ hometown.
 
Aside from ignoring Jesus’ teachings and miracles, the biggest problem or downfall of the Pharisees was self-righteousness, not a lack of intelligence. They were so convinced of their own wisdom that they couldn’t see the Truth standing among them. Had they been open to it, perhaps common sense would have shown the Pharisees the fulfillment of prophecy.

 

Ponder:

Artificial intelligence, while entertaining, may actually have a negative impact on our daily lives. Consider how much time and negative energy the Pharisees invested in debating Jesus. Is this how we want to spend our energy, or would it be better to focus our time on discerning God’s Word for the sake of our spiritual growth?

 

Pray:

Loving God, thank You for the gift of discernment in everything I do and see. Lord, when I stray from Your truth and become distracted by the things of this world, please guide me back to the right path.

 

Pray Together:

Encourage each other to monitor time spent using artificial intelligence. Additionally, discuss how AI can be used to share Jesus with others.

 


March 21


Copyright 2026 Kimberly Novak