Thursday of the Fourth Week of Lent
(Exodus 32:7-14; John 5:31-47)
A successful lawyer was once asked to name the most essential factor for a winning case. The alternatives were something like a fair judge, a sympathetic jury, or a truthful client. The lawyer responded that none of these were as important as a credible witness. In the gospel today Jesus presents various credible witnesses to the Jews that he is the Son of God.
Specifically, Jesus points to John the Baptist, his miracles, the Father, and the Scriptures as witnesses to his claim. John said earlier in the gospel (1:34) that Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus has also performed mighty works like turning water into wine. The Father testifies within the hearts of Jesus’ own disciples who follow him unreservedly. Finally, the Scriptures give testimony to Jesus by such statements as “Zeal for your house will consume me” (see John 2:17) when he throws out the merchants from the Temple.
The Jews are not to be blamed for not believing in Jesus. If they were truly objective observers, they would have seen that he is divine. But perfect objectivity is not to be found. The Jews were committed to their religion which viewed the Messiah as a mighty king who would command political wonders. We, who do not share that expectation, can accept Jesus as the one who brings about social change through creating inner harmony. The result is a more thorough accomplishment that bespeaks a God who is love.
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