Episode 3011: Judge not according to the appearance - Morning Episode

Nightly Zoom Coordinates for Rosary:
Meeting ID: 865 8978 0399
Passcode: Wjjv4960!
Speak Lord for your Servant is Listening

Book Recommendation of the Day
The Consolation of Philosophy: Boethius
Judge not according to the appearance
Welcome to today's episode, where we delve into the scripture readings and saint commemorations for today. We'll reflect on the themes presented in these texts from a traditional Catholic perspective and conclude with a prayer to guide us through this Lenten season.
Scripture Readings:
Epistle: Exodus 32:7-14
In this passage, the Lord informs Moses of the Israelites' idolatry, as they have fashioned and worshiped a golden calf. God expresses His wrath and intention to destroy them, but Moses intercedes, pleading for mercy and reminding God of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Israel. The Lord relents from the punishment He had planned.
Epistle Reflection (Exodus 32:7-14):
The episode of the golden calf serves as a poignant reminder of human frailty and the ease with which we can stray from God's commandments. Despite witnessing profound miracles, the Israelites quickly turned to idolatry when faced with uncertainty. Moses' intercession highlights the power of prayer and the importance of pleading for divine mercy, especially during Lent a time of repentance and reconciliation. This passage invites us to reflect on our own tendencies toward impatience and infidelity, urging us to remain steadfast in our faith and to seek God's forgiveness when we falter.
Gospel: John 7:14-31
This passage recounts Jesus teaching in the temple during the Feast of Tabernacles. He speaks of His divine mission and the source of His teaching, emphasizing that those who seek to do God's will shall recognize the truth. The crowd is divided in their opinions about Him, with some seeking to apprehend Him, but His hour had not yet come.
Gospel Reflection (John 7:14-31):
Jesus' teachings in the temple challenge us to seek true understanding and to judge not by appearances but with right judgment. His emphasis on doing the will of the Father calls us to align our lives more closely with God's will, deepening our commitment during this penitential season. The mixed reactions of the crowd remind us that following Christ may lead to division and misunderstanding, yet we are called to remain faithful witnesses to the truth.
Themes of the Day:
• Repentance and Intercession:
The readings underscore the necessity of acknowledging our sins and seeking God's forgiveness, both for ourselves and on behalf of others. Moses' plea for the Israelites serves as a model for our own prayers of intercession during Lent.
• True Understanding and Judgment:
Jesus calls us to look beyond superficial appearances and to seek a deeper comprehension of divine truths, encouraging us to judge with righteousness and to align our actions with God's will.
• Faithfulness Amid Challenges:
The life of St. Hugh and the reactions of the crowd to Jesus' teachings remind us of the importance of remaining faithful and steadfast in our beliefs, even when confronted with challenges or opposition.
Quotes for Reflection:
• "But Moses besought the Lord his God, saying: Why, O Lord, is thy indignation enkindled against thy people?" — Exodus 32:11
• "Judge not according to the appearance, but judge just judgment." — John 7:24
• "The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church." — Tertullian
Concluding Prayer:
Heavenly Father, as we journey through this Lenten season, grant us the grace of true repentance and the wisdom to seek Your will in all things. Inspired by the intercession of Moses and the teachings of Your Son, may we grow in holiness and fidelity. Through the example of St. Hugh of Grenoble, strengthen us to remain steadfast in our faith amidst life's trials. Create in us clean hearts, O Lord, and renew a steadfast spirit within us. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Closing:
Thank you for joining us in this reflection for Tuesday in the Fourth Week of Lent. May the scripture readings and the life of St. Hugh inspire you to deepen your faith and commitment during this sacred season. Until next time, may God's peace be with you.