My beloved brothers and sisters,
Praise to you Lord Jesus!
As you know, I had my vacation last week and one of the highlights was my visit at the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago. I love visiting zoos as it provides opportunities to learn about different species, ecosystems and the importance of conservation. My zoo visit experience promoted a connection that fostered a desire to protect animals in the wild – leading to a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world. So, if you have the opportunity to visit a zoo, go for it, it can contribute to your well-being by connecting you with nature and offering opportunities for reflection and mindfulness.
Our first reading this weekend is from the book of Numbers (21: 4-9), on how the people of God – the Israelites, after complaining about God’s provisions were bitten by serpents and that many died. In order to save them God, instructed Moses to make a bronze serpent and set it on a pole and that those who looked at it would live. This event foreshadows Jesus as the Christ, who was “lifted up” on the cross and that those believers who look to Jesus for salvation from sin, receive eternal life through faith in Him. The act of “looking” at the serpent symbolizes faith and trust in God’s promise for healing. In the same way, salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, who was lifted up for us.
St. Paul in our second reading (Philippians 2: 6- 11), uses this passage as a powerful example to encourage believers to have the same mindset as Jesus. Though equal to God, Jesus chose to serve humanity by becoming human, dying a humiliating death on the cross, then God exalted Him to the highest name, calling us all to selflessness, humility and service and to submit to God’s will in all things.
Thus, in our Gospel (John 3: 13-17), God’s limitless love for the world is demonstrated by His decision to send His Son to the world and the importance of faith in Jesus in receiving eternal life. The mission of Jesus was not to judge or condemn the world, but save it through Him. Believing and having faith in Jesus is crucial to experience salvation and eternal life which is a new and abundant life with God, not just a reward after death. The cross of Jesus is not presented as a symbol of shame but as the ultimate act of love.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His Only-Begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but may have Eternal Life.” AMEN
God Loves You! ~ Fr. NEIL