REFLECTIONS ON THE WORD : Jn 12: 20 – 33
The Gospel in this 5th Sunday of Lent introduces the metaphor of a grain of wheat that must die to produce life, illustrating the necessary passage through death to reach the fullness of life. It points towards Jesus’ death and resurrection as the path to new life for all believers.
Jesus’ teachings on self-denial and the importance of serving others. He emphasizes that following Him requires a willingness to let go of personal desires and ambitions in favor of a life dedicated to serving God and others.
The divine voice affirming Jesus’ mission and the varied responses from the crowd illustrate the theme of faith and doubt. It highlights the challenges believers face in understanding and accepting the mysteries of faith, as well as the assurance that God’s plan is being fulfilled through Jesus.
The themes of the readings guide the faithful towards a deeper understanding of God’s love and salvation plan, encouraging a personal and communal transformation that aligns with the heart of the Lenten season…and a journey to the Resurrection. (Fr. Rolo Alcasid, SDB)
