Lenten Reflection Day 31 ~ Wednesday of Passion Week

Opening Prayers:

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be, and Confiteor (see Day 1).

Scripture Reading (John 7:1–2, 10, 25–30):

“Jesus walked in Galilee: for He would not walk in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill Him… some of the inhabitants of Jerusalem said: ‘Is not this He whom they seek to kill?’ But lo, He speaks openly, and they say nothing to Him… Jesus cried out in the temple, teaching and saying: ‘You both know Me, and you know whence I am: and I am not come of Myself, but He that sent Me is true, whom you know not…’ They sought therefore to apprehend Him: but no man laid hands on Him, because His hour was not yet come.”

Reflection:

As Jesus approaches Jerusalem, the intensity of opposition grows. The religious leaders seek to kill Him, yet He boldly teaches in the temple. His hour—the appointed time of His Passion—has not yet arrived, so He is untouchable until the Father permits it.

This passage teaches us confidence in divine providence. Jesus knows the threats, but He walks in obedience to the Father’s will, neither rash nor afraid. His courage is not recklessness; it is peace rooted in trust. We too, amid life’s uncertainties or opposition, are called to live boldly—but always under the guidance of God’s timing.

Notice also the confusion of the crowd: they “know” where Jesus is from (Nazareth), but do not truly recognize His divine origin. Likewise, many today hear of Christ, but do not know Him. Lent is a time not only to deepen our own knowledge of Christ but to bear witness to others, even when it's uncomfortable.

As persecution surrounds Jesus, He remains focused and faithful. So must we. Fidelity in the face of adversity is one of the great fruits of Lent. The Cross looms nearer—but so does the Resurrection.

Examine areas where you may avoid speaking or acting boldly out of fear. Make a resolution to practice courage today—even in small things. Trust that your “hour” is held in God’s hands.

Saintly Insight:

St. John Fisher, bishop and martyr under Henry VIII, stood firm as political pressure mounted against him. He wrote, “I die for the faith of Christ’s Catholic Church. I desire you all to believe with me, and to pray that I may be faithful to the end.”

His courage came not from pride but from conviction, trust in God’s plan, and love for the truth. Let us ask his intercession for fortitude.

Closing Prayers:

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

V: Let us bless the Lord.

R: Thanks be to God.

V: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

R: Amen.