Focus on the destiny

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJ
Never Get Stagnant!
Reflection Date: April 6, 2025 Fifth Sunday of Lent
Daily Readings: Isaiah 43:16-21; Philippians 3:8-14; John 8: 1-11

No matter how difficult or dry our current circumstances may seem, God brings life, hope, and transformation—this is the message from all the readings today. This newness of life is emphatically expressed in Paul’s words, reflecting how deep his commitment was to knowing Christ personally, and thus living a life centered on Him.

The Gospel today is a timeless reminder of the power of mercy and the transformative love of Jesus.

“Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth” (Isaiah 43:19) is a declaration of hope. It invites us to open our spiritual eyes and recognize the hand of God in our lives. Even in times of despair and stagnation, it is an assurance that God can bring forth new opportunities, restoration, and hope.

What are our priorities today? Worldly attachments? Power? Prestige? Material goods? Paul speaks from his heart about how he values Christ Jesus above all else: “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:8). Are you ready to run the race, fixing your eyes on Jesus toward the goal?

Let us try to visualize, in contemplation, the event in today’s Gospel. Place yourself among the Pharisees. The woman, caught in the very act of adultery, is at the feet of Jesus—her face marked by shame and fear of death. Listen to the dialogue between Jesus and the accusers… “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her” (John 8:7). Do you also have a stone in your hand? What is your response? It calls for self-examination.

Now, listen to the conversation between Jesus and the woman. He does not utter a harsh word to put her to further shame. Rather, He gently calls her “woman” and says, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and do not sin again” (John 8:11). Look at how He draws a perfect line between her old life and the new life she is about to embrace. Reflect on your life now—what does Jesus do with your life today?

Call to Action for Catholic Living: 

• Let us fix our eyes upon Jesus and strive to extend our hands to those most in need of God’s mercy.                                                                                                                                             
• Are you willing to let go of your worldly attachments? Are you ready to count everything as loss and rubbish in order to commit yourself freely to Christ?                                                                                        
• Let your fingers not point toward others to accuse them; instead, enable others to embrace the new life of mercy and reconciliation.