Friday of the Fifth Week of Lent April 2, 2004 Scripture: Jeremiah 20:1-13; John 10:31-42 Reflection: “…It calls them gods to whom the word of God came…” Jesus is being condemned not for what he does, but for who he is. He is condemned for speaking the truth about himself, for saying, ‘I am the Son of God.’ Although Jesus faced stoning, he eluded the authorities, and returned to where he was baptized. Recall the voice from heaven proclaiming, “This is my beloved in whom I am well pleased.” Jeremiah experiences the same treatment for prophesying, speaking the truth to the authorities of his time. He feels duped by God, complaining that the word of the Lord has brought him derision and scorn. He feels terror surrounding him. Yet, Jeremiah, like Jesus, knew that the Lord was with him. It will be the same for us “to whom the word of God comes.” When we speak, live, be the word of God, we can expect misunderstanding and mistreatment. Yet, if we entrust our cause to the Lord, we know God is with us and God’s power will prevail. Suggested Action: Let God probe your mind and heart. Be a witness to the word of God. Speak with courage against the sin of racism. Sr. Ann Marie McDonnell, IHM East Harlem, New York