GOD’S COMPASSION
ISAIAH 49:8–15, PSALM 145, and John 5:17–30
Thus says the Lord: At the favorable time, I will answer you; on the day of salvation, I will help you (Isaiah 49:8). This prophecy speaks of God’s care and compassion. Don’t give up on God; He cares.
Similarly, today’s psalm also reiterated this theme of God’s compassion, saying, “The Lord is kind and full of compassion, slow to anger, abounding in love. How good is the Lord to all, compassionate to all his creatures?” (Ps.145:8). If God is slow to anger, it is dangerous for us to be quick to anger. Let us learn to be compassionate.
In the Gospel, Jesus tells us that “My Father is still working, and I also am working.” This statement shows Jesus’ relationship with the Father. Jesus spoke of God as a loving father with whom he related closely and confidently. The Pharisees saw this as blasphemous and wanted to kill him. Sometimes, we become hostile toward those we do not agree with.
When talking about God’s work, it is important to note that the work of the Father is the work of the Son. Christ’s dealings made the people understand who God is. Jesus is God’s physical expression. In the same vein, our relationship with people ought to enhance their knowledge of God. We too should be Jesus, presently at work in all facets of life.
Despite the hostile character of the pharisees, they could not stop Jesus from his mission. Therefore, through acts of kindness, compassion, and love, let us keep working to make the world a better place and attract many to salvation.
Let us pray
O God, who rewards the merits of the just and offers pardon to sinners who do penance and have mercy, we pray to those who call upon you that the admission of our guilt may serve to obtain your pardon for our sins. Amen.
Father Daniel Evbotokhai
