The readings for today invite us to reflect on the enduring nature of God's promises and the profound mystery of Jesus' identity. As we journey through Lent, these scriptures challenge us to examine our own faith and commitment to God's word. They call us to a deeper understanding of covenant, promise, and the eternal life offered through Christ.
The Everlasting Covenant
In the first reading from Genesis, we witness God's covenant with Abraham, a pivotal moment in salvation history (Genesis 17:3-9). God promises to make Abraham the father of a host of nations, changing his name to signify this new destiny. This covenant is not merely a contract but a sacred bond, an "everlasting pact" that extends to Abraham's descendants. It's a reminder that God's promises are not fleeting; they endure throughout generations.
This passage speaks to our own lives. We, too, are inheritors of this covenant through Christ. Just as Abraham was called to trust in God's promise despite the seeming impossibility of becoming a father in his old age, we are called to trust in God's promises, even when faced with doubt or uncertainty. This requires a profound act of faith, a willingness to surrender our own understanding and embrace the divine will. We are reminded that true faith is not passive; it demands action, a commitment to living out the covenant in our daily lives. This echoes the call to ethical and social justice, urging us to care for the marginalized and uphold moral responsibility, reflecting God's love in our actions.
Remembering God's Deeds
The Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 105:4-5, 6-7, 8-9) reinforces the theme of remembrance. We are called to "look to the Lord in his strength" and "recall the wondrous deeds that he has wrought." This act of remembering is not simply an intellectual exercise; it's a way of grounding ourselves in God's faithfulness. By recalling God's past actions, we strengthen our trust in his present and future promises.
In our modern world, filled with distractions and anxieties, it's easy to forget God's presence in our lives. The psalm reminds us to intentionally cultivate a spirit of remembrance, to reflect on the ways God has worked in our lives and in the lives of those around us. This could involve keeping a journal of answered prayers, sharing stories of faith with loved ones, or simply taking time each day to acknowledge God's blessings.
"Before Abraham Was, I AM"
The Gospel reading from John presents a powerful and challenging encounter between Jesus and the Jews (John 8:51-59). Jesus declares, "Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever keeps my word will never see death." This statement, coupled with his assertion "Before Abraham came to be, I AM," provokes outrage and disbelief. The Jews accuse him of blasphemy, unable to comprehend the depth of his claim to divinity.
Jesus' words here are not meant to be taken literally in a physical sense, but rather point to a deeper spiritual truth. He is speaking of eternal life, a life that transcends physical death and is rooted in a relationship with him. This concept of eternal life is not merely about existing forever; it's about experiencing the fullness of life in God's presence, a life characterized by love, joy, and peace.
The phrase "I AM" is particularly significant. It echoes the name God revealed to Moses in the burning bush (Exodus 3:14), signifying Jesus' divine identity. This is a profound mystery, one that challenges our limited human understanding. It invites us to contemplate the nature of God and the relationship between the Father and the Son. It also reminds us that true knowledge of God is not simply intellectual; it requires a personal encounter, a willingness to open our hearts and minds to the divine presence.
This passage also touches on the complexities of human nature and divine grace. The Jews' rejection of Jesus highlights the human tendency to cling to our own understanding, even when confronted with divine truth. It reminds us of the importance of humility and openness to the possibility that our own perspectives may be limited. Only through grace can we overcome our resistance and embrace the fullness of God's revelation.
Living in the Light of Eternity
As we continue our Lenten journey, let us be challenged by these readings to deepen our understanding of God's covenant, to remember his faithfulness, and to embrace the mystery of Jesus' identity. Let us strive to live in the light of eternity, seeking to keep God's word and experience the fullness of life that he offers. This requires a commitment to ethical living, a willingness to care for the marginalized, and a constant seeking of God's presence in our lives. May we, like Abraham, rejoice in the hope of seeing Christ's day and living in his eternal light.