Jeremiah 20: 7, 10-13; Psalm 18; John 10: 31-42
Jesus asks his enemies, “I have shown you many good works from the Father. For which of these are you going to stone me?” They respond: “It is because you are making yourself God.” Jesus replies, “Is it not written in your Law, God says, ‘you are gods’?” …Believe the works so that you may know and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father.” And then Jesus walks away from a toxic situation.
Reconciliation, our purpose in Lent, is about talking again, but Jesus has discerned that talking to these accusers is going nowhere. It poisons them more deeply and perhaps is poisoning his heart. Without taking up any stones, look at some people, whether personal relationships or public figures, whom you find toxic. Ask the Spirit to give you the gift of discernment, when to try to reopen conversation and when to walk away—for now.
We are so grateful for your words and your works, Jesus. Let our gratitude now make up for the pain of your compatriots and their religious leaders. Keep us open to you.