Wednesday of HOLY WEEK

Suggested Readings:

Isaiah 50:4-9a

Psalm 70

Hebrews 12:1-3

John 13:21-32

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In yesterday’s reading from the Gospel of John we read the story of Philip leading some inquirers to meet Jesus. Since he was called by Jesus, (John 1:43) it has been Philip’s mission, starting with Nathaniel to bring others to Jesus.

The eleventh chapter of Hebrews defines faith “as the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (11:1). This definition is followed by a list of persons who are considered paradigms of faith. As the readers of the letter, we are told that we are surrounded by this great cloud of witnesses. This is analogous to a sporting event where we are cheered on by those who have gone before us and have won the race set before them. To run this race, we throw off the sin that slows us down and inhibits our progress. We are called to look away from the world toward Jesus. Jesus is the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, the one who brings our faith to its culmination in fulfillment of God’s plan.

Reflection is an integral part of our Lenten journey. Close your eyes and take a deep cleansing breath. Hold it for a few seconds and then exhale slowly. Repeat this process until you feel completely relaxed. If it helps you say a phrase such as, “Jesus is Lord” or “Shabbat shalom.” Now, recall that person from the great cloud of witnesses who brought you to faith in Jesus Christ. It may be a parent, pastor, teacher, or friend. Someone in your life, like Philip, brought you to faith. In this moment thank God for that person who led you to faith.

There is another step in this process of reflection. That is the step of commitment. Before you leave this quiet moment ask God to lead you to someone who needs to meet Jesus. You have the opportunity to join the great cloud of witnesses.

We don’t know much about Philip except the name of his home town, Bethsaida. But we know that he was committed to bring others to Jesus. We need more people willing to bring others to Jesus. This is our opportunity to join the great cloud of witnesses.