The works the Father has given Jesus to testify to the truth are the same works that Jesus guides us to be and do. Once we testify that Jesus is our Savior, our responsibility is to be a burning and shining lamp reflecting the light of His love inside us outward toward others. Even though we do not know what heaven ultimately might be, we are messengers of great possibilities. We are to continue the journey Jesus began, so we, in faith, help to complete the Father’s vision.
The Pharisees Question Jesus by James Tissot.
The full-resolution painting and more detail are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
John 5:33-36 – Scripture*
33 You sent messengers to John, and he testified to the truth. 34 Not that I accept such human testimony, but I say these things so that you may be saved. 35 He was a burning and shining lamp, and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light. 36 But I have a testimony greater than John’s. The works that the Father has given me to complete, the very works that I am doing, testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on John 5:33-36 Reflection – Be a Burning and Shining Lamp.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible John 5 passage.
The Immersive Prayer website follows the guidelines for image web use at the Brooklyn Museum and the Jewish Museum websites.