Our faith in Jesus also comes with a responsibility.

Good morning, happy Thursday, and many blessings.
 
Today Gospel (John 3: 31-36) weaves together a variety of images of earth and heaven. John talks about the person who is “earthly” and who speaks of “earthly things.” Then John writes that the One who comes from heaven reigns above all. Of course, John is writing about Jesus.

John reiterates that Jesus is “the One above all.” Jesus testifies to the truth. However, John also writes that no one accepts Jesus’ testimony! However, if we do believe in Jesus and accept His testimony, we certify that God is trustworthy.

Our belief in Jesus also comes with a responsibility. We are called to proclaim the Gospel by our words and more importantly, by our deeds. We must live our faith, not simply profess our faith in Jesus. Just as Jesus commissioned his disciples to “go forth and preach the Gospel,” Jesus also sends us forth to live the Gospel and to preach the Gospel in word and deed. This is our call, our challenge and our gift! How will we respond? Will we go forth and spread the Gospel by word and example? Jesus is depending on us!
 
John often presents life as a stark conflict between the forces of good and evil, between faith and sin, light and darkness, truth and lies. I find myself very often caught in this big struggle, as I steer a way in the complex world I inhabit. I ask to accept the testimony of Jesus, who comes from above, and to listen to his word.
 
‘Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life’. Lord, give me faith and trust in your Son, help me desire life eternal, a life that is so good and full that it will never end. Help me realize it starts now, and not after death.
 
God “gives the Spirit without measure”. We do not decide to be born. We cannot force our own birth. Nor can we force our rebirth in the Spirit. However, that rebirth is offered all our life. In an era where action is king, we must learn to receive – and receiving can be a most difficult activity.
 
We need to understand that God’s Word is spoken unceasingly in my soul. There is never an instant when he is not within me. With him, I make my own soul every day of my earthly life. I need have no fear of birth or rebirth, change or life or death. Instead, I see them for what they are – as thrilling stages along a transcendent journey home.
 
Giving and receiving -the deepest relationship of love - shines out in this text. The reciprocal love of Father and Son, a love without limits, is poured out on us through the Holy Spirit. May I give to others what I am constantly receiving.
 
God, you alone can satisfy the longing of my heart and its many contradictions. In this year of faith, confirm my personal faith and commitment to you. May the example of my life invite others to believe in you.
 
Blessings,
 
Fr. Luis+