If I do not perform my Father’s works
do not believe me;
but if I perform them,
even if you do not believe me,
believe the works,
so that you may realize
and understand that
the Father is in me
and I am in the Father.”
(John 10:37-38)
Jesus’ works testify to His Identity. The good works He has done is evidence of His divine nature. His mission is to reveal God’s love through His works. Actions often speak louder than words. We should strive to reflect our beliefs through our actions, having faith and courage in Jesus even in the face of adversity.
Jesus' works, a testament clear,
His Identity Divine, we hold dear.
Good works He's done, evidence unfold,
Of His nature Divine, love untold.
His mission, God's love to reveal,
Through His works, His promise seal.
Actions speak louder, so they say,
In our deeds, let our faith lay.
Strive we must, in actions reflect,
Our beliefs, with respect.
In face of adversity, courage take,
Have faith in Jesus, for His sake.
Dear Lord Jesus,
Your works testify to Your divine identity. The good works You have done are evidence of Your divine nature. Your mission is to reveal God's love through Your works.
Help us to understand that actions often speak louder than words. Guide us to strive to reflect our beliefs through our actions. Give us the strength to have faith and courage in You, even in the face of adversity.
We thank You for Your unfailing love and for Your guidance in our lives. We pray that we may always find comfort and strength in You.
In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.
Pericope:
II: The Book of Signs
FEAST OF THE DEDICATION
John 10:31-42
Gospel Acclamation
Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of everlasting life.
Gospel | John 10:31-42
31 The Jews picked up rocks to stone Jesus. 32 Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from my Father. For which of these are you trying to stone me?” 33 The Jews answered him, “We are not stoning you for a good work but for blasphemy. You, a man, are making yourself God.” 34 Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your law, ‘I said, “You are gods”’? 35 If it calls them gods to whom the word of God came, and Scripture cannot be set aside, 36 can you say that the one whom the Father has consecrated and sent into the world blasphemes because I said, ‘I am the Son of God’? 37 If I do not perform my Father’s works do not believe me; 38 but if I perform them, even if you do not believe me, believe the works, so that you may realize and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father.” 39 Then they tried again to arrest him; but he escaped from their power. 40 He went back across the Jordan to the place where John first baptized, and there he remained. 41 Many came to him and said, “John performed no sign, but everything John said about this man was true.” 42 And many there began to believe in him.
Background:
This passage is from the Gospel of John, Chapter 10, verses 31-42. It’s a significant part of the New Testament where Jesus asserts His divine identity and His unity with God the Father. Here are some key points:
Jesus’ Works Testify to His Identity: Jesus points to the good works He has done as evidence of His divine nature (verses 32, 37-38). He suggests that even if people do not believe His words, they should believe based on His works.
Jesus Quotes Scripture to Defend His Claim: When accused of blasphemy for claiming to be God, Jesus quotes Psalm 82:6 to argue that those to whom God’s word came were called ‘gods’ (verse 34-36).
Jesus Escapes Arrest: Despite attempts to arrest Him, Jesus manages to escape, showing His control over the situation (verse 39).
John’s Testimony about Jesus: The passage ends with many people believing in Jesus, acknowledging that everything John the Baptist said about Him was true (verses 41-42).
This passage emphasizes Jesus’ divine nature and His mission to reveal God’s love through His works. It also highlights the importance of faith and belief.
Learning Lessons:
Divine Identity: Jesus asserts His divine identity and His unity with God the Father. This teaches us about the nature of Jesus and His unique relationship with God.
Belief in Actions: Jesus points out that His works are a testament to His divine nature. This teaches us that actions often speak louder than words and that we should also strive to reflect our beliefs through our actions.
Scripture Interpretation: Jesus uses scripture (Psalm 82:6) to defend His claim of divinity. This highlights the importance of understanding and correctly interpreting scripture.
Faith Amidst Opposition: Despite facing opposition and threats, Jesus remains steadfast and escapes from their power. This teaches us about having faith and courage in the face of adversity.
Affirmation of Prophetic Testimony: The people affirm that everything John the Baptist said about Jesus was true. This underscores the importance of prophetic testimony and the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot