We are descendants of Abraham… John 8,33

Today, the Lord addresses the Jews with harsh words. And not just anyone, but “those Jews who believed in him” (John 8:31). This dialogue of Jesus undoubtedly reflects the difficulties the Jewish Christians caused in the Church’s beginnings. Since the Jews were descendants of Abraham by kinship, they considered themselves superior not only to the Gentiles who did not believe but also to all non-Jewish disciples of the same faith. They say: “We are Abraham’s seed” (John 8:33); “Our father is Abraham” (v. 39); “We have only one father, God” (v. 41).

Even though they are Jesus’ disciples, Jesus seems to mean nothing to them that could add to their noble origin. However, this is where they could have done better. The true sons of God are not those according to physical descent, but the promised heirs are those who believe (cf. Rom 9:6-8). With faith in Jesus, anyone can achieve the Abrahamic promise. Since this is so, among the disciples, “there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for they are all one in Christ Jesus” (cf. Gal 3, 27-28).

We, too, can be tempted to be led astray by spiritual pride. We don’t need to talk about our relationship with other religions; let us think only about our own Church. How often do some of us consider ourselves to be better Catholics than others just because we are part of this or that movement, follow this or that discipline, or pray different prayers or devotions? Some may promote themselves because they are rich, others because they have studied more.

Some are because they hold important positions and others. After all, they come from wealthy families. Therefore, let us remain in truth and service to others, which brings true freedom and inner transformation so that we can grow in righteousness and holiness. “I would like each of us to feel the joy of being a Christian… God leads his Church; he is her support, especially in difficult times” (Benedict XVI).

Thoughts for today’s Gospel:

Knowing the truth brings freedom in the form of inner transformation. This transformation is, therefore, a spiritual process in which a person grows in righteousness and holiness › St. John Paul II.

The more a person does good, the more accessible he becomes. There is no true freedom without service to goodness and justice › Catechism of the Catholic Church.