REFLECT:
In the Gospel of John, Jesus often used the expression "I AM" to affirm himself and his mission. In addition, Jesus will make an invitation or promise: “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst" (John 6:35). I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture" (John 10:9). In today's Gospel, Jesus declares “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).

Jesus is the Incarnate Word, the Light that came into the world to shine on everyone. The Pharisees did not believe Jesus. So, Jesus and the Pharisees had an argument. They said, His testimony to themselves was worthless. But they did not realize that Jesus did not testify alone. Because “I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me" (John 8:18). Jesus always is closely associated with the Father. He came from the Father, and He will return to the Father. But the Pharisees did not know this mystery. They do not understand the intimate relationship between the Son of God and the Father: “If you knew me, you would know my Father also” (John 8:19). That is why they consider Jesus' words blasphemous. When the time comes, they will seek to capture and kill Him. 

Lent is a good time for us to look back at ourselves and our lives. And when we remember the Passion and Resurrection of the Lord, we experience the terrible power of darkness. But in the end, the light will triumph over darkness (John 16:33). We prepare to celebrate the resurrection of the Lord by choosing to stand completely on the side of Christ, who has triumphed and brought new life into the world. May the Light of the risen Christ begin sprouting in my soul.

PRAY:
Lord Jesus, light and darkness are mixed today. As a result, I was covered by darkness and could no longer see God's light most clearly. Save me from my sins and weaknesses, so that I can be free to love and serve You. Please remove the temptations in my heart so that I can fully belong to You. And may God be with me forever. Amen.

ACT:
We try to do ordinary things with a new spirit, that is the spirit of Christ, the spirit of the Gospel, by living charity with those around us.