John 8:51–59 BEFORE ABRAHAM WAS, I AM

Year A, Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent

In today’s Gospel, Jesus makes a powerful and shocking statement: “Before Abraham came to be, I AM.”

To those listening, this was not just confusing — it was disturbing. They understood exactly what Jesus was claiming.

By using the words “I AM,” Jesus was revealing His divine identity. He was not simply a teacher or a prophet; He was

claiming to be one with God.

This is why the people react so strongly. They pick up stones. The truth of who Jesus is challenges them, unsettles them,

and even offends them.

This Gospel invites us to reflect on a deeper question: Do we truly accept Jesus for who He is, or only for who we are

comfortable with Him being?

It is easy to accept Jesus as someone who comforts us, blesses us, and walks with us in our struggles. But it is more challenging

to accept Him as Lord — the one who calls us to change, to surrender, and to trust completely.

Jesus also says: “Whoever keeps my word will never see death.” This is not just about physical death, but about a life that is empty,

disconnected, and without hope. To “keep His word” means to live in relationship with Him — to listen, to trust, and to follow.

In our daily lives, we often try to remain in control. We want to shape our lives on our own terms. But Jesus invites us into something

deeper — a life rooted in Him, a life that leads beyond fear, beyond sin, and even beyond death.

Lent is a time to rediscover who Jesus truly is. Not just a part of our lives, but the center of our lives. When we recognize

Him as “I AM,” everything changes. Our priorities shift. Our fears lessen. Our hope grows.

The people in the Gospel picked up stones because they were not ready to accept this truth. The question for us is:

Will we resist Him, or will we surrender to Him?

Question to Ponder:

Do I truly allow Jesus to be Lord of my life, or do I only accept Him when it is comfortable for me?

With Love and Prayers

Your Co-Traveler

Father Leo