Stiff-Necked People
Exodus 32:7-14, Psalm 106, John 5:31-47
Jesus rebuked the people for their haughty and stubborn attitude, saying, “You place your hopes on Moses, but Moses will be your accuser. If you really believed him, you would believe me too, since it was I that he was writing about” (John 5:31-47). Despite witnessing miracles, they failed to recognize Jesus as the Son of God.
Sadly, there are still people today with closed minds, refusing to acknowledge God’s presence and power. When our minds are blind, our eyes are useless. If we are not open to salvation, even the most compelling signs and wonders cannot transform us.
In Exodus 32, the Israelites are described as “stiff-necked” people, blind to God’s faithfulness and love. They quickly turned to idolatry, creating their own gods. We, too, can be tempted to turn away from God in times of trial. How can we persevere in doing God’s will, even in the face of tribulations?
Prayer
Dear Lord, we humbly pray for your mercy. Help us, your servants, to grow in faith and spirit. May we sincerely persevere in doing your will, so that we can safely and soundly reach the joys of Easter. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
