John 13:16-20 Jesus Christ, You Are the Faithful Witness

Although this is how the truth of something is today in our world ascertained for the courts by attorneys seeking the truth, it is not unlike today’s story of St. Paul seeking the truth and presenting it to those assembled at the temple.  Paul had formerly been a Pharisee, which meant that he was an expert in the law, and knew how to draw truth out of statements and testimonies to present to the people for their edification.  In today’s story he calls forth the great leaders of the Jewish people and their prophets, especially John the Baptist who was still in recent memory, to give testimony that “God, according to his promise, has brought to Israel a savior, Jesus.”  The truth of Christ has spread to all the known world, and Paul, the apostle whom Christ personally called after the others, gives testimony to this Truth.

In today’s Gospel Jesus promises to show us the truth that he is “I Am” through events that would fulfill the scripture about him.  He is leading us to know that he is not only the Way to salvation, but the Truth.  He is unified with the Father in this.  He assures us that those of us who accept him, accept our Father in Heaven for he says, “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever receives the one I send receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me.”  We are not to try to corrupt the Truth, for the Truth cannot be corrupted.  Christ Jesus is the faithful witness to that.  We are each called to share in that communion as witnesses today throughout words and our actions, which mark us as Christians, and our fidelity to the Truth.

John 3:7b-15 Nicodemus

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks with Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin who was convinced by the miracles of Christ Jesus, and that he was sent by God.  Jesus' message to Nicodemus was simple:  faith and Baptism are necessary for eternal life. 

Nicodemus is a respected, rich, and well learned man.  Jesus is gentle with his words explaining what he can in a manner that this man can understand and connect the dots within the faith that lives within him.  Jesus is leading him to everlasting life.

As a side note, this is this same Nicodemus who after Christ's death assisted at Jesus' burial (see John 19:39)

Luke 18:9-14 Be Merciful to Me, a Sinner

In the news this week was article in the Wall Street Journal about Elizabeth Cabraser.  Who is she?  She is an attorney that was selected to lead a 22 lawyer committee to broker a resolution between Volkswagen and its many costumers because of the smog emissions scandal.  The article about Ms. Cabraser mentioned all the other attorneys vying for the same position as she by stating their merit or what their latest accomplishments are.  Ms. Cabraser, according to the paper's portrayal, remained humbled and instead of bragging about her own merit, showed concern for the customers that she would like to help.  That set her apart and earned her the praise of others as well as the lead role in the proceedings. 

Jesus today gives us a parable of the proud Pharisee and the humble tax collector.  The Pharisee isn't willing to humble himself, to make room in himself for God and others, so great is his pride.  In contrast the tax collector knows his wrongs and in his humility asks God to have mercy on him.  Only in humility can we find room to receive the graces we need for ourselves and others through Christ our Lord.