Good works of Jesus and Two different Responses

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season : Lenten Season :  Fifth Week :  Saturday*

*Gospel :  John 11:45-57*

*First Reading : Ez 37: 21-28*

*Responsorial Psalm : Jer 31: 10-13*

*Good works of Jesus and Two different Responses* 

*1) Same Event, Different Hearts*

The miracle is undeniable—Lazarus was dead and is now alive. Yet: Some people open their hearts and believe. Others become fearful, defensive, or threatened.

Truth doesn’t automatically produce faith. It depends on the condition of the heart. People interpret the same reality differently based on their inner disposition.

Even today, people can encounter goodness, truth, or even personal transformation—and respond either with openness or resistance. It challenges us to ask: Am I receptive to truth, or do I resist it when it unsettles me?

*2) Faith vs. Fear of Losing Control*

Those who plotted against Jesus (like the leaders connected to Sanhedrin) were not ignorant—they were afraid: Afraid of losing power. Afraid of social or political consequences (see John 11:48)

Sometimes rejection of truth isn’t about lack of evidence—it’s about fear of change or loss.

We may resist what is right because it threatens: Our comfort. Our status, Our habits 

Ask yourself: Am I rejecting something because it’s wrong—or because it costs me something?

*3) The Hardening of the Heart*

Repeated resistance to truth can lead to deeper opposition. What starts as doubt can become hostility.

The people who reported Jesus didn’t just disbelieve—they became instruments in a plan to destroy Him.

When we continually ignore conscience or truth: We become desensitized. We justify wrong actions, We may even oppose what is good

This is a warning to stay attentive and humble.

*4) Miracles Don’t Force Faith*

Even a powerful miracle like raising the dead didn’t convince everyone.

Faith is not just about seeing miracles—it’s about willingness to trust and surrender.

People often think, “If only I saw something extraordinary, I would believe.” But this passage shows: even the extraordinary doesn’t guarantee faith.

Faith involves: Openness, Humility, Willingness to change.

*5) The Cost of Belief*

Those who believed in Jesus were stepping into something risky. 

Following Him could mean: Social rejection, Conflict with authorities

Belief is not just intellectual—it’s a commitment.

Standing for truth, integrity, or faith today can still come with cost: Being misunderstood, Going against the crowd, Making difficult moral choices

*6) God’s Work Continues Despite Opposition*

Ironically, the plot to kill Jesus becomes part of the larger divine plan leading to the cross.

Human resistance cannot ultimately stop God’s purpose.

Even when truth faces opposition: Goodness is not defeated. God can bring purpose out of resistance and suffering

*7) Points to Ponder*

Do I respond to truth with openness or defensiveness?

What fears might be preventing me from embracing what is right?

Am I allowing my heart to soften—or harden—over time?

What does it cost me to live truthfully today?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*