Saturday 21st March – Saturday of the 4th week of Lent

Reflection: John 7: 40-52

GIVE A FAIR HEARING

In the determination of legal matters before the court of law, of paramount importance is the need to ensure the fair hearing of the concerned parties in order to arrive at a fair trial. Fair hearing, at least, demands that parties involved have opportunity to present evidence to support their case and discover what evidence exists against them before an impartial tribunal.

If our judicial system, guided by civil law seeks to ensure fair evaluation of matters brought before it, should not we Christians, guided by a more sublime precept operate at a higher pedestal? However, can we say this is truly the case with us? Do we not prejudge others without giving opportunity to hear them out?

Beloved in Christ, let us heed the counsel of Nicodemus in today’s gospel reading (John 7:50-51); let us guide our hearts against the entanglements of prejudice, pride, anger and jealousy which easily prevents us from a fair and objective appraisal of situations. It is the same measure that we give to others that we get in return; if we are unfair in our dealings with others, we must not be surprised if we get similar or worse treatment in return.

Let us protect the valuable relationships God has blessed us with; let us be fair in our assessment of situations and the people around us.

PRAYER: Oh Lord! Give me a heart that is loving and pure, free of prejudice and pride that I may be fair in my dealings with others. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: YOUCAT 302 – How does one act justly?

One acts justly by always making sure to give to God and to one’s neighbor what is due to them. …Justice is concerned with equity and longs to see people get that to which they are entitled. We must allow justice to govern our relations with God also and give him what is his: our love and worship.

HIDE A TREASURE: “For the measure you give will be the measure you get back” Luke 6:38b

Today’s Readings: Jeremiah 11: 18-20; Psalm 7: 2-3, 9-12; John 7: 40-52