Saturday, March 16, 2024
Jer 11:18-20; Jn 7:40-53
Today’s Gospel highlights the conspiracy against Jesus.
The religious leaders aren’t ready to give Jesus a chance to state his case.
They are determined to punish Jesus, though it would contradict the principle of justice.
The Pharisees ask guards, ‘Have you also been deceived?’ Rephrased, the question can only mean that Jesus deceived them.
Secondly, they ask, ‘Have any of the authorities or the Pharisees believed in him?’ By asking this, they declare that anyone who follows Jesus can’t be a member of the religious community.
Thirdly, they accuse the crowd. ‘This crowd that doesn’t know the law is accursed’ They conclude that only the unlettered can follow Jesus.
Finally, they silence Nicodemus, who suggests a fair hearing to Jesus, by retorting, ‘You are not from Galilee also, are you?’
Jesus’ case is representative of the victimization of the innocent.
Those who have power walk to any extent to silence the truth, if it doesn’t meet their agenda.
Jesus’ case is an invitation for us to join hands against corrupt and oppressive power.
Fr. Dhinakaran Savariyar
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