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A Reflection on John 8:12-30

“He who sent me is true…” (v 26b)

The Pharisees continue to question Jesus. I imagine his exasperation. I remember the times when, like Him, I explain and repeat and explain more, desperately trying to be understood. But there is a difference. When I am at my wits’ end, frustrated for being written off and misunderstood again and again, my frustration is rooted in selfishness. I am trying to put forth my own will. I want the other to know and understand, and perhaps to respect and admire, me, for my own sake.

But Jesus’ purpose is entirely different from mine. Jesus came for one purpose, to do the Father’s will: “I do nothing on my own authority but speak thus as the Father taught me.” (v 28b) And his repetition and perhaps even frustration at the misunderstanding of those around Him is not for his own sake. Jesus wants the other to know and understand the Father, for their sake. He wants to give them His own light, the light of the world, so they may know the way to where He is going. He is desperate for them to know, so that they may share in the Father’s blessing, for “you will die in your sins unless you believe that I am he.” (v 24)

“’You are my witnesses,’ says the Lord, ‘and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am He. Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me. I, I am the Lord, and besides me there is no savior.’” (Is 43:10-11)

Do I believe that nothing and no one can save me but Jesus?

Jesus, I am so unlike you. You show love for those who continue again and again to show disbelief despite the many signs and gifts you give. I am one of those lost sheep. I keep straying and wondering why I am lost, why I can’t see or feel the light anymore. Jesus, be my Light. Cut through the darkness in my soul and show me the way to the Father.

Scripture quotations are from The Catholic Edition of the Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright ©1965, 1966 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America.  Used by permission.  All rights reserved worldwide.