WEEK FOUR OF LENT – WEDNESDAY – MARCH 17, 2021 THE SON AND THE FATHER (Jn 5:17-30)

Prayer:

O Jesus, reveal the Father and Jesus to me.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching his disciples in the Temple.

Context:

Jesus has just healed a man who lay ill for thirty-eight years. However, he healed him on the Sabbath, and “The Jews began to persecute Jesus” (Jn 5:16) and even tried to kill Jesus because He made “himself equal to God.” (5:18). Now, Jesus responds to their hostility.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud.)

Jesus said, “I say to you that a son cannot do anything by himself, but only what he sees his father doing. Whatever he does, the son does likewise. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself does, and he will show him greater works than these, so that you may be amazed.
Just as the Father raises the dead and gives life, so also the Son will give life to whomever he wishes. Nor does the Father judge anyone, but he gives all judgment to his Son, so they may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father who sent him.”

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

Jesus reveals the source of his powers and deeds.
He does only what he sees the Father doing.
The Father loves Jesus and shows him everything. Nothing is held back.
As the Father gives more power, Jesus does greater works. This causes even more wonder.
Only God can give life and judge the world. Jesus shares even in these divine powers.

Affections: (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

Jesus, through you, I share in the Father’s life.
Reveal your mysteries. I can do nothing on my own.
I am amazed and filled with wonder as I see you work in me.
O Jesus, you imitated the Father. Let me imitate you.
You have all power over life and death. I entrust my soul to you.
Only you are the Lord of heaven and earth.