Homily for Thursday of the 5th Week of Lent

The promises to Abraham look to the future, imagining a time when all nations come together as if they are family, like descendants of Abraham. This connection doesn't come from bloodlines but from sharing faith and ideals. It calls for faith in a promised land for everyone, a shared journey to salvation, equal access to Earth's resources, and respect for the dignity of every person. These promises encourage us to think big, respond openly, and aspire to the ideal of one world and one people, as the family of God.

Jesus' words go back to the time of Abraham and even to the moment before creation. When He says, “Before Abraham came to be, I AM,” He is saying He is Yahweh. This name is sacred to Israel and means “He who is always present.”

In St. John’s message, Jesus goes beyond Abraham’s faith. He is one with God, who had plans for Abraham before creation. Jesus is the Word of God and He guides our history. His plans will be fully realized when everyone is united. In his letter to the Galatians, St. Paul tells us that through baptism into Christ, we are all one, no matter our background or status. We also inherit the promises made to Abraham so long ago.