3/18/2026 (Wednesday) Today’s Gospel reading: John 5:17-30

17 Jesus answered the Jews: “My Father is at work until now, so I am at work.”
18 For this reason they tried all the more to kill him, because he not only broke the sabbath but he also called God his own father, making himself equal to God.
19 Jesus answered and said to them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, the Son cannot do anything on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing; for what he does, the Son will do also.
20 For the Father loves the Son and shows him everything that he himself does, and he will show him greater works than these, so that you may be amazed.
24 Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes in the one who sent me has eternal life and will not come to condemnation, but has passed from death to life.
25 Amen, amen, I say to you, the hour is coming and is now here when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.
26 For just as the Father has life in himself, so also he gave to the Son the possession of life in himself.
27 And he gave him power to exercise judgment, because he is the Son of Man.
28 Do not be amazed at this, because the hour is coming in which all who are in the tombs will hear his voice
29 and will come out, those who have done good deeds to the resurrection of life, but those who have done wicked deeds to the resurrection of condemnation.
30 “I cannot do anything on my own; I judge as I hear, and my judgment is just, because I do not seek my own will but the will of the one who sent me.”

3/18/2026 (Wednesday) Today’s Gospel reflection / sermon / homily: John 5:17-30

In this moment in the ministry of Jesus, He explains His relationship with God and His mission in the world. Instead of merely performing miracles to impress people, He reveals that His actions are deeply connected to the will and work of the Father. This message reminds us that true purpose in life comes from aligning ourselves with something greater than our own desires.

One of the most inspiring lessons from this story is the idea of living with a sense of divine purpose. Jesus did not act independently or selfishly; His work reflected the will of God. In the same way, our lives become more meaningful when our decisions are guided by faith, integrity, and compassion rather than personal gain. In today’s world, many people measure success by wealth, popularity, or achievements. Yet real fulfillment often comes from living in harmony with God’s values including serving others, practicing kindness, and pursuing what is right.

Consider the example of a doctor working in a busy hospital. While the job may bring prestige and financial reward, the deeper calling of the profession is to heal and care for others. When that doctor chooses to treat every patient with dignity, whether rich or poor, they reflect a higher purpose beyond personal ambition. Their work becomes an expression of compassion and responsibility.

Another modern example can be seen in teachers who dedicate their lives to shaping the minds and character of young people. A teacher who patiently guides struggling students, encourages their dreams, and helps them believe in their potential is participating in a work that goes far beyond classroom lessons. Their influence may inspire a future leader, scientist, or humanitarian.

The message also challenges us to examine how we judge others. In the passage, Jesus speaks about authority and judgment, emphasizing that true judgment is rooted in truth and righteousness. In the modern world, people often judge quickly through social media comments, rumors, or shallow impressions. Someone might be criticized online without understanding their situation, or labeled unfairly based on a single mistake.

A better approach is to practice fairness, humility, and understanding. Imagine a workplace where employees support each other rather than compete through gossip or criticism. When leaders evaluate others with wisdom and compassion instead of prejudice, trust grows and the entire community becomes stronger.

Another important lesson is the call to spiritual awakening. Many people today are physically alive but spiritually disconnected. They may be busy with work, entertainment, and daily responsibilities, yet feel empty inside. This passage reminds us that true life is not just about existing; it is about awakening our hearts to faith, purpose, and a deeper relationship with God.

For example, someone who begins volunteering in their community may discover a new sense of meaning. Helping feed the hungry, mentoring children, or caring for the elderly can awaken compassion that had been dormant. Through service, people often rediscover joy and spiritual vitality.

Ultimately, this message invites us to reflect on how we live each day. Are we acting only for ourselves, or are we participating in a greater mission of goodness and love? When we align our lives with God’s purposes through service, humility, and faith, we become instruments of hope in a world that desperately needs it.

Our actions, no matter how small, can reflect a greater light when they are guided by a heart that seeks to do what is right.

Go here to read further Gospel reflection.