Reflection for April 16 Thursday of the Second Week of Easter: John 3:31-36

Gospel: John 3:31-36

The one who comes from above is above all. The one who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of earthly things. But the one who comes from heaven is above all. He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. Whoever does accept his testimony certifies that God is trustworthy.  

For the one whom God sent speaks the words of God. He does not ration his gift of the Spirit. The Father loves the Son and has given everything over to him. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever disobeys the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains upon him.

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

What would happen to us if we detach ourselves from Jesus? We would slowly become citizens of this world, anchoring our lives only on what is temporary and passing. When we live only for what we can see, touch, and control, we begin to forget that there is more beyond this life—that there is God, and that eternity awaits us.

Many of us can fall into this way of thinking. And when trials or problems come our way, we rely only on what this world has taught us. We try to carry our burdens on our own strength. But when we find ourselves unable to overcome these trials, we begin to lose hope—not only in the world, but even in ourselves. At times, everything can feel so heavy, so overwhelming, that it seems like the end for us. Sadly, some are even led to despair.

But what would happen to us if we have Jesus in our lives? Even in the midst of darkness, we would be filled with hope. Even when situations around us seem hopeless, we would not be crushed, because we know that we are not alone. This is the great difference when we allow Jesus to dwell in our hearts—He changes the way we see, the way we think, and the way we endure.

In our Gospel this Thursday, we are reminded: “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever disobeys the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains upon them.” These words invite us to reflect deeply on where we stand and whom we choose to follow.

The choice is always before us. Will we open our hearts and allow Jesus to enter and reign in our lives? Or will we keep Him outside, holding on to a life that cannot truly satisfy?

If we choose to welcome Jesus, we will always have hope—even when everything around us seems to fall apart. His presence becomes our strength, His promises become our anchor, and His love becomes our light in the darkest moments.

Are we truly allowing Jesus to live in our hearts, or are we still holding back and trying to face life on our own? What must we surrender today so that we may fully experience the hope and life that only He can give?—Marino J. Dasmarinas