Daily Gospel Reflection for March 22, 2023

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: John 5:17-30

John’s Gospel can be a struggle to get through as he had a tendency to wordiness. During a scripture class in college, I was encouraged to read it slowly and under my breath so as to be able to better understand. During this same class, I was told when you hear Jesus say, “Amen, Amen,” stop everything you are doing and listen, carefully, as what is to follow is really important. There are twenty-five of these in John’s Gospel, and each one connotes certainty and agreement.

Jesus gives us two such “amen, amens” in this reading, and both give us words of encouragement. Those of us who hear His word and believe are given the gift of eternal life, but even the dead will hear and live.

It is the second amen, amen that gives this member of the St. Monica Club reassurance. If you are not familiar with this club, it is for those who have children, family members, or friends who have left the faith or chosen not to follow Jesus. It is a club no one wants to belong to, but many of us find ourselves active members despite our best efforts.

Jesus continues, clarifying His position as Son and as judge. But, most importantly, He is to be trusted as He does “not seek my own will but the will of the one who sent me"--as should we.

As shall we. We keep our wayward family and friends in our prayers, sacrifices, and Masses and cling to all the amen, amens Jesus has given us.

Ponder:

Do I find myself discouraged and forget the promises Christ has given us with each amen, amen?

Pray:

Dear Jesus, help me to give full agreement to each of your mens and be reassured of your promises to save all whom believe in You.

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When you hear Jesus say, “amen, amen,” stop everything you are doing and listen, carefully, as what is to follow is really important. #DailyGospel

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