Where St. Luke strives to give a historical, chronological account of the ministry of Jesus Christ, John’s Gospel is arranged, not strictly chronologically, but topically or theologically. He aims to answer the theological question: Who is Jesus Christ?
Where each of the other evangelists record many miracles, John chooses only seven: the miracle at the wedding of cana, the healing of the nobleman’s son, the healing of the paralytic, the feeding of the five thousand, the walking on water, the healing of the man born blind, and the raising of Lazarus.
John carefully records people’s reactions to Jesus’ miracles, as well. After the healing of the nobleman’s son, today, we hear how the whole household began to believe in him. After his miraculous feeding of the five thousand and his subsequent teaching on the Bread of Life in chapter 6, we hear how many people who were initially following Jesus turned away from him, finding the teaching, that Jesus gives us his flesh and blood to eat and drink too hard to believe.
How do I react to the miracles and teachings of Jesus? Is it in-one-ear-and-out-the-other? Or do I allow the word of God to water my soul? Whether we are attending daily mass or not, we do well, to reflect upon the scriptures throughout the day.
To ask, what does this teach me? What does this demand of me? Which of my habits does this challenge me to change?
To begin the day with a bit of scripture, and return to it, throughout the day, fills the day with God’s word, and welcomes God’s creative and transformative power into our lives. Like in the prophet Isaiah this morning, God says, “Lo, I am about to create new heavens and a new earth. The things of the past shall not be remembered or come to mind. Instead, there shall always be rejoicing and happiness in what I create” This is what the Lord desires to do in us, to create a new heavens and a new earth in us.
The Royal Official should be our companion all day today, his response of faith and that of his household, Isaiah's promise of God's re-creation. should be considered all day.
The season of Lent should be filled with much more of God’s word, not less. Which is why we fast from the non-essentials, so that we can feast on the Word, throughout Lent; for man does not live on bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
Through Word and Sacrament may the Lord continue to strengthen us in Holiness and transform our sins and sorrows into Joy, for the glory of God and salvation of souls.
For an increase in faith for the catechumens and candidates who approach the sacraments of initiation in the coming Paschal Solemnity.
That the Church might be delivered and protected from all spirits of error, heresy, schism, and unbelief.
For strength to resist temptation, and the humility to sincerely repent of sin.
That through fasting and self-denial, we may be ever more conformed to Christ.
That those in need may find assist in the charity of faithful Christians and that peace and security may be firmly established in all places.
For all who have died, and for all the poor souls in purgatory, and for X. for whom this Mass is offered.
Mercifully hear, O Lord, the prayers of your Church and turn with compassion to the hearts that bow before you, that those you make sharers in your divine mystery may always benefit from your assistance.
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