Wednesday of the
Fourth Week of Easter
(Acts 12:24-13:5a; John 12:44-50)
Perhaps the greatest mind in the Age of Enlightenment
belonged to the English scientist Isaac Newton.
Newton mapped with mathematical accuracy the laws of mechanics and of motion. He was also a philosopher and
theologian. The poet Alexander Pope lyrically
summed up Newton’s achievements, “God said, ‘Let Newton be,’ and all was light.” In today’s gospel Jesus speaks of himself
also as coming into the world as light.
As light Jesus performs two great services. First, he uncovers human sinfulness so that people
may repent and be reconciled. Some
desire privacy so that their sins may not be known. But Jesus does not allow them to fool
themselves by speaking to their consciences.
More importantly, Jesus shows humanity how to love. Because of him, the highest measure of love
will not have anything to do with sex.
It will be counted in the degree of sacrifice one makes for the good of
others.
