4/7/2025 (Monday) Today’s Gospel reading: John 8:12-20

12 Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
13 So the Pharisees said to him, “You testify on your own behalf, so your testimony cannot be verified.”
14 Jesus answered and said to them, “Even if I do testify on my own behalf, my testimony can be verified,
because I know where I came from and where I am going. But you do not know where I come from or where I am going.
15 You judge by appearances, but I do not judge anyone.
16 And even if I should judge, my judgement is valid,
because I am not alone, but it is I and the Father who sent me.
17 Even in your law it is written that the testimony of two men can be verified.
18 I testify on my behalf and so does the Father who sent me.”
19 So they said to him, “Where is your father?” Jesus answered,
“You know neither me nor my Father. If you knew me, you would know my Father also.”
20 He spoke these words while teaching in the treasury in the temple area.
But no one arrested him, because his hour had not yet come.

4/7/2025 (Monday) Today’s Gospel reflection / homily / sermon: John 8:12-20

The world is filled with many forms of darkness including fear, sin, confusion, and despair. At times, it can feel as though we are walking through a fog, uncertain of our path and unsure of where to turn. But Jesus assures us that we do not have to walk in darkness. He is the light that illuminates our path, revealing truth and leading us toward righteousness.

Imagine walking through a pitch-black room. Every step is filled with uncertainty, and the fear of stumbling is overwhelming. Now, imagine that a light is turned on suddenly, the obstacles become visible, the path is clear, and the fear disappears. This is what Jesus does for our lives. When we follow Him, He dispels the darkness of sin and confusion, replacing them with clarity, hope, and direction.

Following the Light
Jesus’ statement is not just a declaration of who He is; it is also an invitation. He says, “Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness.” Following Jesus is more than just believing in Him; it is a daily decision to walk in His ways, to trust in His truth, and to reflect His light to others.

To follow the light means:
1. Turning away from sin. Just as light and darkness cannot coexist, sin and righteousness cannot dwell together. When we follow Jesus, we choose to live according to His Word, leaving behind the ways that separate us from God.

2. Trusting in His guidance. There will be moments when we do not understand His plans. However, as the psalmist says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). Jesus lights our way step by step, even when the full picture is not clear.

3. Being a light to others. Jesus calls us to reflect His light in a dark world. Matthew 5:16 says, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” When we live with love, kindness, and truth, we shine His light into the lives of those around us.

The Testimony of Truth
The Pharisees challenge Jesus, questioning His authority. They do not understand that He speaks from divine truth, not human perspective. Jesus declares that His testimony is valid because He knows where He comes from and where He is going. He speaks as one who has seen eternity, sent by the Father to bring salvation.

Many in the world still reject the light of Christ, preferring to remain in darkness. Some doubt His truth, while others resist His call. But Jesus does not change. His light continues to shine, offering life to all who will believe.

A Call to Walk in His Light
Are there areas in your life where darkness still lingers? Are there fears, doubts, or sins that keep you from fully experiencing the light of Christ? Jesus invites you to step into His light, to trust in Him, and to walk in His truth.

When you follow Jesus, you will never walk in darkness. His light will guide you, His truth will sustain you, and His presence will strengthen you. Even when the world seems dark, His light will never fade.

Let us choose today to walk in His light and shine that light for others to see. For in Him, we have the light of life.

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