THE WORD
Is 56: 1–3.6–8 / Jn 5: 33–36
Jesus said: “You (Jewish leaders) sent emissaries to John, and he testified to the truth. I do not accept testimony from a human being, but I say this so that you may be saved. He was a burning and shining lamp, and for a while you were content to rejoice in his light. But I have testimony greater than John’s. The works that the Father gave me to accomplish, these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me.”
IN OTHER WORDS
I once met a student inside the elevator and he smiled at me and said, “Father, I am now a graduate!” I replied, “Are you sure you really graduated?” And he showed me his framed diploma. I retorted, “Are you sure that is your name?” He had a bigger smile when he said, “Yes, Father!”
In a world where qualifications are looked up to and required, we have developed a culture where “testimonies” are written down and framed to answer those who question us. We show educational degrees affixed at the end of our names to testify to how much we know. We flaunt flashy cars to show how much money we have. We crave to be near famous people and have an autograph or a photograph with them as a proof of that. We give out roses and chocolates to prove our love and devotion.
Jesus said, “... these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me.”
There are certain things whose proof of existence cannot be flaunted except in silence. Love, for one, must be shown day in and day out. Commitment is another one that must encompass every thought and action. Faith or religiosity cannot be done to attract applause (like what the Pharisees were doing that earned Jesus’ ire). Good works are another. To show them off will invite suspicion to their authenticity.
When we come to think about it, the proof of one’s worth is really who one is. That is what God looks for – the testimony.
- Fr. Vic Rayco, SVD (St. Jude Cath. Sch., Manila)
The Word in other words 2015
An annual project of Logos Publications, The WORD in Other Words Bible Diary contains daily scripture readings and reflections written by priest, brothers, and sisters of the three congregations founded by St. Arnold Janssen (the SVD, SSpS, and SSpSAP). It hopes to serve as a daily companion to readers who continually seek the correlation of the Word of God and human experience.
