Friday of the Fourth Week of Lent March 26, 2004 Scripture: Wisdom 2:1A, 12-22; John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30 Reflection: The struggle to live the Gospel values that Jesus preached and lived is a challenge that each Christian takes on every day. Some in our world who do not desire to take on such a challenge may feel “threatened” by the presence of a “just one” in their midst as in today’s reading from Wisdom. This “just one’ they say, “…is a censure of our thoughts; merely to see [such a one] is a hardship…” Sometimes you are the “just one” and, as such, feel the taunts and teasing of others as you try to live a Christian life. Recall the initial ritual in the Baptism of a child. The minister – priest or deacon – makes the sign of the cross on the forehead of the infant and invites the parents and godparents to do the same. You received this cross as you became a part of Christ’s Body – the church in your Baptism. Struggle and conflict are inevitable in a materialistic world. But, as a baptized person, you have the power and strength to say, when necessary, and in your own words what Jesus says in today’s Gospel, “The truth is, I have not come of myself…” Yes, God is with you! Suggested Action: When being teased or taunted because of your desire to do what Jesus would do, use your thumb to make the sign of the cross on the side of your index finger over and over, even as you respond patiently as a “just one” to the person or situation. Sr. Ann Newell, IHM Burlington, New Jersey

Graphic: Sr. Fran Fasolka, IHM