Friday of the Fourth Week of Lent (Year A)
Wisdom 2:1a, 12-22Psalm 34:17-18, 19-20, 21 and 23John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30 The Just One Under Pressure (Wisdom 2) The Book of Wisdom describes “the just one” who becomes a target simply because he lives with integrity. His goodness exposes the selfishness of others, and instead of being inspired, they feel threatened. So they plot against him. It’s a striking preview of Jesus. And it’s also a mirror for anyone who has ever tried to do the right thing and found that not everyone applauds. The Lord Is Close to the Brokenhearted (Psalm 34) The psalm reassures us that God is near—not when life is easy, but when the heart feels bruised, misunderstood, or worn down.“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.”Not distant. Not indifferent. Close. Jesus Walks Into Hostility (John 7) In the Gospel, Jesus moves quietly because people are seeking to kill him. Yet when the moment comes, he walks into the Temple and speaks openly. He doesn’t run away. He doesn’t hide. He trusts the Father’s timing. His courage isn’t loud or dramatic. It’s steady.It’s the courage of someone who knows he is loved. Connecting It All to Lent Lent is the season when we walk with Jesus into the places that feel uncomfortable—our weaknesses, our fears, our patterns of sin, our relationships that need healing. And sometimes, like my friend with the golden retriever, we feel chased by things we’d rather avoid. But the readings remind us: Lent isn’t about proving our strength.It’s about discovering God’s nearness.