In the first reading, we see how Jeremiah experienced psychological and spiritual crises as reflected in the conflict of sentiments. Yet amid such strong contradictions, Jeremiah remained faithful to Yahweh. He invites us to glorify God and remember how God has taken care of the needy/poor with whom we can sometimes identify ourselves(Ps. 22:23; 35:9-10, 109:30-31).

Jesus in the Gospel account also experienced the consequences of the conflict of the Jews who reacted strongly to Jesus' claim of his unity with Father God. For them, it was blasphemy. They witnessed the good works of Jesus, yet their minds were clouded with their own stubbornness in their understanding and relationship with God.

We are challenged to reflect on our own works of 'evangelisation'. If the people we serve and reach out to do not recognise God's love, it may be an invitation to examine our relationship with God. We have a good example in John the Baptist, who led the people to Jesus, and they believed. This is a challenge to all of us in ministries.

Let this Lenten season lead us into a more intimate relationship with God so that this relationship may reflect in our relationships with others.