Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent

Today's Readings

John 8:21-30

"Because He spoke this way, many came to believe in Him." – John 8:30

The final verse of the today's Gospel reading is what caught my attention. We have many interactions at the College every day with students, administrators, faculty, and staff. We have conversations ranging from small talk to deep, philosophical talk. Each and every time we talk with someone, whether inside or outside the walls of the College, it is so much more than an exchange of information: it is an opportunity to be the light of world and the salt of the earth. The passage above tells us that many came to believe because Jesus spoke in a certain way. I think we can also speak and interact in certain ways that will help us to be better ambassadors for Christ. If we find our concrete identity as citizens of heaven, then we can confidently adopt a disposition of hope, optimism, patience, and encouragement that can inform all of our interactions. Whether a phone call, a meeting, an elevator conversation, or a presentation, we can let our light shine by the tone of our voices, the undivided attention that we give to those speaking to us, the words that we choose to speak, and the words that we choose not to speak. In all of these ways, we can brighten someone’s day, make a stronger connection with someone, gain someone’s trust, and so much more. This type of intentional communication can serve to tighten the very fabric of the College, bringing us all closer in the Franciscan values of hospitality, leadership, service, peacemaking, and community. And on a deeper level, the ways in which we approach our interactions can also point people towards Christ. 

As we get closer to Easter, let us know that to be an Easter people means that Christ permeates all aspects of our lives. Let us use our lives, especially the ways in which we approach our everyday interactions, to display the love that Christ has for every person. Whether directly through our speaking or indirectly through our demeanor and actions, let us not keep the good news a secret this Easter!

Timothy Nagy 

Assistant Director of Mission, Ministry & Interfaith Dialogue