Are we from Above or Bellow

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season: Fifth Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Jn 8:21-30*

*First Reading : Nm 21:4-9*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 102:2-3, 16-18, 19-21*

*Are we from Above or Bellow*

The phrase *"You belong to this world, but I do not belong to this world"* is a powerful statement which  invites several layers of biblical reflection:

*1) Jesus' Divine Origin*

Jesus is pointing out His heavenly origin in contrast to the earthly mindset of His listeners. 

While humanity is bound by worldly systems, sin, and limited understanding, Jesus comes from the Father, embodying divine truth, holiness, and eternal purpose (John 1:1–14). 

He operates on a plane beyond political power, cultural expectations, or worldly values.

*2) Call to Recognize the True Kingdom*

By saying He is *not of this world,* Jesus is revealing the nature of the Kingdom of God—a kingdom not built on force or fame but on grace, truth, and love. 

His mission wasn't to conquer Rome but to conquer sin and death.

This echoes John 18:36: *My kingdom is not from this world.*

*3) Separation and Transformation*

Believers are called to follow in Christ's footsteps.

In John 17:14–16, Jesus prays about His disciples: *“They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.”*

This doesn't mean Christians physically leave the world but that they are called to live differently, with transformed minds and hearts (Romans 12:2), set apart for God's purposes

*4) A Reflection on Belonging*

To *belong to this world* is often to cling to temporal power, status, wealth, and pleasure. 

Jesus challenges us to examine where we truly place our trust and identity.

Are we shaped more by culture or by Christ?

*5) Hope for the Pilgrim*

Lastly, this distinction gives hope to those who feel out of place, marginalized, or weary in this life. 

As Philippians 3:20 reminds us: *Our citizenship is in heaven.*

Just as Jesus did not belong to this world, neither do His followers. 

We are pilgrims with a promise—a heavenly home, prepared by the One who came from above.

Where do I belong? 

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*