Jesus cried out and said,
“Whoever believes in Me believes not only in Me
but also in the one who sent Me,
and whoever sees me sees the one who sent Me."
(John 12:44-45)
Believing in Jesus is the same as believing in God the Father. He is the light that has come into the world to dispel darkness. He came not to judge the world, but to save it. His commandments lead to eternal life. These lessons can inspire us to deepen our faith, live in the light of Jesus’ teachings, understand the purpose of His coming, respect the power of His words, and strive for obedience to His commandments.
44 Jesus cried out and said, “Whoever believes in me believes not only in me but also in the one who sent me, 45 and whoever sees me sees the one who sent me. 46 I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness. 47 And if anyone hears my words and does not observe them, I do not condemn him, for I did not come to condemn the world but to save the world. 48 Whoever rejects me and does not accept my words has something to judge him: the word that I spoke, it will condemn him on the last day, 49 because I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and speak. 50 And I know that his commandment is eternal life. So what I say, I say as the Father told me.” (John 12:44-50)
In faith's vast expanse, a truth we discover, believing in Jesus, is like none other. For faith in the Son, in the Father instills, a unity divine, that our spirit fills. He is the light, that pierces the night, dispelling the darkness, with His might. Not to judge, but to save, He came, in His mercy, He heals our shame. His words, commandments, a guiding light, leading us to eternal life, oh so bright. These lessons profound, in our hearts engraved, inspire us to live as the ones He saved. Deepen our faith, in His teachings abide, understand His purpose, let Him be our guide. Respect His words, their power untold, strive for obedience, be ever bold.
Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You today with hearts full of gratitude. We acknowledge that believing in Jesus is the same as believing in You. You sent Your Son into the world, not to judge us, but to save us, and for that, we are eternally grateful. Jesus, the Light of the World, You have come to dispel the darkness that surrounds us. You illuminate our path and guide us towards righteousness. Help us to live in Your light and walk in Your ways. We understand that Your commandments lead to eternal life. Inspire us to deepen our faith, to immerse ourselves in Your teachings, and to strive for obedience to Your commandments. May we respect the power of Your words and let them guide our thoughts, words, and actions. Help us to comprehend the purpose of Your coming, to save us and to give us life in abundance. May this understanding transform our lives and inspire us to share Your love with others. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
God is able to intervene even in seemingly hopeless situations. As we navigate the challenges of our daily lives, we should always maintain resilience of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity, constantly seeking and following the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our decisions and actions. Let us always be open in responding to God’s work and calling, willing to step out in faith and obedience and share our faith with others.
24 The word of God continued to spread and grow. 25 After Barnabas and Saul completed their relief mission, they returned to Jerusalem, taking with them John, who is called Mark. 13:1 Now there were in the Church at Antioch prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Symeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who was a close friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then, completing their fasting and prayer, they laid hands on them and sent them off. 4 So they, sent forth by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and from there sailed to Cyprus. 5 When they arrived in Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. (Acts 12:24–13:5)
In the realm where hope seems lost and dim, God's power shines, intervening on a whim. In the labyrinth of life, so vast and wide, in His wisdom and strength, we confide. Resilience of faith, a beacon in the night, guiding us through, with its radiant light. Perseverance we wear, a shield so strong, in the face of adversity, where we belong. The Holy Spirit whispers, a gentle guide, in our decisions and actions, by our side. In the dance of life, a rhythm, a song, to His divine guidance, we belong. Open hearts responding to His divine call, in faith and obedience, we give our all. Stepping out, where angels fear to tread, by His love and grace, we are led. Sharing our faith, a story to be told, a testament of love, more precious than gold. In every word, in every deed, we plant His love, like a tiny seed.
Dear Heavenly Father, in the midst of life's storms and seemingly hopeless situations, we are reminded of Your divine intervention. We know that nothing is too difficult for You, and Your power knows no bounds. As we navigate the challenges of our daily lives, grant us the strength to maintain resilience of faith. Help us to persevere in the face of adversity, knowing that You are with us every step of the way. Guide us, Holy Spirit, in our decisions and actions. May we constantly seek Your wisdom and follow Your lead. Let Your voice be the loudest in our hearts, guiding us on the path of righteousness. Open our hearts, Lord, to respond to Your work and calling. Give us the courage to step out in faith and obedience, trusting in Your perfect plan for our lives. Finally, Lord, as we experience Your love and grace, may we be compelled to share our faith with others. Let our lives be a testament to Your goodness, drawing others closer to You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
God is in control, and His rule is based on righteousness and justice. God’s love and blessings are not limited to a specific group of people but are meant for everyone. The blessings we receive from God are not just for our own benefit but are meant to be shared and used to bless others. Let us always give thanks and praise to God for His goodness and mercy.
2 May God have pity on us and bless us; may he let his face shine upon us. 3 So may your way be known upon earth; among all nations, your salvation. 5 May the nations be glad and exult because you rule the peoples in equity; the nations on the earth you guide. 6 May the peoples praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you! 8 May God bless us, and may all the ends of the earth fear him! (Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8)
In the grand design, in the cosmic dance, God is in control, nothing's left to chance. His rule is just, His judgments fair, in His righteous kingdom, we all have a share. God's love, a river, flowing wide and free, not bound by borders, for everyone to see. His blessings, like raindrops, fall on us all, on the just and unjust, on the great and small. The blessings we receive, not just for our gain, but to share, to bless, to ease another's pain. Like seeds in our hands, waiting to be sown, in the garden of life, His love is shown. So let us give thanks, let our praises soar, for His goodness, His mercy, forevermore. In every moment, in every place, let us reflect the beauty of His grace.
Dear Heavenly Father, we acknowledge that You are in control, Your rule is based on righteousness and justice. We take comfort in knowing that Your plans are perfect, and Your justice is served in Your time. We thank You for Your love and blessings, which are not limited to a specific group of people but are meant for everyone. Your love knows no bounds, and Your blessings are as numerous as the stars in the sky. Help us to remember that the blessings we receive from You are not just for our own benefit. Give us a generous heart to share and use these blessings to bless others, to show them Your love and kindness. Finally, let us always give thanks and praise to You, God, for Your goodness and mercy. May our lives be a testament to Your endless love and grace, and may our words and actions bring glory to Your name. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Pericope:
Gospel
II: The Book of Signs
RECAPITULATION
John 12:44-50
First Reading
IV: The Inauguration of the Gentile Mission
HEROD'S DEATH ; MISSION OF BARNABAS AND SAUL
Acts 12:20-25 / 01-03
Responsorial Psalm
Second Book of Psalms 42-72
HARVEST THANKS AND PETITION
Psalm 67:1-8
Reflection Source:
Copilot