A reading of the holy Gospel according to John 12:44-50
Jesus cried out and said, “Whoever believes in me believes not only in me but also in the one who sent me, and whoever sees me sees the one who sent me. I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness. And if anyone hears my words and does not observe them, I do not condemn him, for I did not come to condemn the world but to save the world. Whoever rejects me and does not accept my words has something to judge him: the word that I spoke, it will condemn him on the last day, because I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and speak. And I know that his commandment is eternal life. So what I say, I say as the Father told me.”
REFLECTION
The Lampyridae are a family of insects in the beetle world. They are soft-bodied beetles that are commonly called fireflies, glowworms, or lightning bugs. Many of us have beautiful childhood memories running around catching as many of these fireflies. There was no need of a flashlight or street lights because these creatures of God were equipped to help us get back home through the luminance of their bodies. There are many explanations as to why they light up, but all I remember is the fun and excitement there was chasing the light.
Jesus tells us that He is the light, and He came so that everyone who believes in Him might not remain in darkness. Sometimes we lose sight of God's gifts because we don't see beyond our deficits. Jesus comes to open our eyes to the truth which is the brightest light in a dark world. This is the Light that we read about, that we should turn from the darkness of sin, to the light of righteousness.
Besides listening and following the Lord, we are called by God to care for the oppressed, the misunderstood, and the marginalized. His light is to shine on all and we are to use what God has given us to build up His Church.
We look to the priest for guidance, to be our light as we travel alongside him in search of God. By his dignity and office, the priest has duties to God and, therefore, shows us how to serve the Lord. Yes, he is a man, but, yet, he is different from others. So, we in PAPA pray for the priest, that he may be the best man of God, the light and influence of others. PAPA Prayer for Priests
God Bless You
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