Good Works Vs Stones

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season : Lenten Season :  Fifth Week :  Friday*

*Gospel :  John10:31-42*

*First Reading : Jeremiah 20:10-13*

*Responsorial Psalm : 18: 2-7*

*Good Works Vs Stones*

*1) Why Goodness Sometimes Faces Resistance*

Good works can: Expose hypocrisy. Challenge established norms. Make others feel insecure or convicted

People may “throw stones” not because something is wrong—but because something is too right for their comfort.

If the works are good, why the violence?

If the light is clear, why the resistance?

It reveals a timeless truth: goodness does not always get applause—it often provokes opposition.

*2) Stones in Today’s World*

“Stones” represent more than violence—they symbolize resistance to truth.

We may not face literal stones, but the modern versions are real: Criticism or mockery, Misunderstanding your intentions, Being excluded or judged, Online negativity or hostility

Doing the right thing—standing for honesty, kindness, integrity—can still attract resistance.

*3) Jesus' Good Work and the Result*

*Jesus' visible good works* : Healing the sick, Restoring dignity to the rejected, Teaching truth, love, and mercy, Bringing hope to ordinary people

*The Unexpected opposition* : Misunderstanding, Accusations, Hatred from some leaders, Ultimately, rejection and crucifixion

So the same good works produced admiration in some and hostility in others.

*4) The Inner Question for Us*

Jesus’ question echoes into our lives: “For which good work are you being opposed?” 

Sometimes, when you’re misunderstood or criticized, it’s worth asking: Am I doing something wrong? Or am I simply doing something right that others resist?

That distinction matters.

*5) How to Respond to “Stones”*

Jesus doesn’t retaliate—He questions, reveals truth, and remains grounded.

In our lives, this can look like: 

Staying calm instead of reacting emotionally

Continuing to do good without needing approval

Letting your actions speak over time

Choosing integrity over popularity

*6) A Paradox to Accept*

There’s a quiet paradox here: The more authentic and good your actions are, the more they may disturb what is false around you.

Not everyone celebrates light—some resist it.

*7) Inspiring Reflections* 

*A) Not all opposition is failure* : Sometimes opposition is the shadow cast by light.

*B) Stay rooted, not reactive* : Jesus didn’t throw stones back—He stayed grounded in purpose.

*C) Let your works speak over time* : People may reject today what they will understand tomorrow.

*D) Don’t stop doing good* : If goodness stops because of criticism, the world loses light.

*E) Transform stones into strength* : What is thrown at you can either: Hurt you, Or shape you. The choice is yours.

Do good anyway. Even if misunderstood. Even if resisted. Even if alone. Because Truth Never Dies 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*