In the text of the gospel of this Sunday (18th Sunday of Year B – Jn.6:24-35),
We hear a question that possibly many of us have secretly asked at one time or another:
“What must we do to do the works of God?”
And Jesus’ answer is short and to the point:
You must believe in the one sent by God.”
Simple and clear, is it not?
Perhaps… too much so… we may miss the point, precisely.
We are asked to believe:
- NOT a list of ideas
- NOT a set of articles
- NOT a collection of themes
- NOT a group of subject matters
but a PERSON – God’s messenger, God himself among us, one of us.
The One who is REALLY REAL.
Yes, it is as simple as that, but as demanding as that.
Recognizing him for who he is,
Accepting him as such
Surrendering to him all that we are and experience from day to day.
Not some purely intellectual assent to truths – no matter how inspiring,
Not only the acceptance of defined dogmas,
but trusting that Man: Jesus of Nazareth – the Christ,
relying on him in all situations,
and clinging to him… as if one’s life depends on it, and it does indeed!
As simple as that, yes, but… once you try to live this… you will see!
Note: Another reflection is available in French on another theme at: https://image-i-nations.com/18e-dimanche-de-lannee-b/