Jesus goes to Jordan, after Jews were trying to arrest Him

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season: Fifth Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 10:31-42*

*First Reading : Jer 20:10-13*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 18:2-3a, 3bc-4, 5-6, 7*

*Jesus goes to Jordan, after Jews were trying to arrest Him*

*1) Going back to Jordan*

The days Gospel ends with Jesus' going to the Jordan, after Jews first tried to stone him and secondly they tried to arrest him 

This movement of Jesus—going back across the Jordan to the place of John’s first baptizing—is rich with symbolic and spiritual meaning

Jordan is very much connected to the life and ministry of Jesus

*2) A Return to the Beginning of His Public Ministry*

This location marks the starting point of Jesus’ public ministry—where John the Baptist baptized Him (John 1:28). 

By returning there, Jesus seems to be returning to His mission's roots, perhaps for reflection, prayer, or preparation before the events to come 

These are the events which took place after his return to Jordan

Raising of Lazarus and then entry to Jerusalem for His Passion

There are moments in our own lives when we need to return to where we began—whether in memory or physically—to reconnect with our original call, to be renewed, and to discern our next steps 

*3)  A Place of Divine Confirmation*

At the Jordan, during His baptism, the heavens opened, the Spirit descended, and the Father’s voice affirmed: *“This is my beloved Son”* (Matthew 3:17). 

Going back there could signify a return to that divine affirmation and clarity, especially after the rejection He faced from the Jewish leaders (John 10:39).

When we face misunderstanding or hostility, we too can draw strength by recalling the moments God confirmed our identity and mission.

*4) A Contrast Between Rejection and Reception*

In John 10, we witness a situation where Jews are trying to stone  Jesus in Jerusalem. 

But across the Jordan, people were more open to Him. *“Many came to him and said, ‘John did no sign, but everything that John said about this man was true.’ And many believed in him there”* (John 10:41–42).

Sometimes we are rejected in one place, but welcomed in another. 

Jesus shows that it’s okay to walk away from closed hearts and continue the mission where people are more receptive.

*5) Symbolism of the Jordan River*

The Jordan is not just a river—it’s a symbol of transition, purification, and new beginnings. 

Israel crossed the Jordan to enter the Promised Land. Naaman was healed in it.

Jesus sanctified its waters through His baptism.

Crossing the Jordan can represent a moment of change and consecration.

Jesus going there can inspire us to seek new beginnings and spiritual cleansing when life becomes heavy or confused.

*6) Where is My Jordan?*

This is a very important question to reflect about our own life 

This Jordan may be the temple, may be a retreat centre, may be our own house, may be a Holy Person, may be my own Superior, may be my own spouse,  May be the Word of God, may be my own life 

So where is my Jordan? Am I ready to go back to Jordan?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*