Reflection On John 8: 51-59

The name of a person is often considered to be much more than simply an artificial label by which we identify a particular individual. Names have deep meanings, long standing traditions, personal dignity, a sacred symbolism and certain predictive qualities for those who bear them. Unique attention is given to the importance of names in today’s readings. Abram does not have the right name for the role he will be called upon to play so his name is altered to better fit his new calling. “Abraham”, his new name, contains the concept of “father”. He will become the father of a new nation and his name will be an everlasting reminder of his destined role. In the Gospel, Jesus is trying to convince his Jewish hearers that he existed long before Abraham. He says His name is really, “I am”, that is, everlasting existence. That name more clearly signifies His true eternal nature. “Jesus”, is His earthly name. Think of the quality and meaning of your name. Where did it originate and what does it signify?  Remember that at baptism it was pronounced in the same breath as the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Our names have been made holy and thereby give direction to our style of living.
When we come to the point of understanding, mutual trust, readiness and openness to listen to the other, respect for the other…. These are all important aspects of true communication. The awareness of being the Son of a loving Father was flowing through the words and deeds of Jesus. But the Pharisees failed to communicate with Jesus. What we find is an argument rather than a genuine desire to know about Jesus. When we make our truth the truth, we close ourselves to the possibility of seeing the truth in a different dimension. There is a proverb which is worth remembering: “listen or thy tongue will make thee deaf.” Lord hardens not our hearts…… teach us communicate with you and others effectively.
Questions to ponder:
How do we communicate with Jesus and others?
Do we have a mutual understanding in our talks?
Do we hurt or argue or ignore others in speech?
How one can overcome from all sort of unwanted speech?

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