HOMILY FOR FEAST OF SAINT JOHN THE APOSTLE
HOMILY FOR FEAST OF SAINT JOHN THE APOSTLE
HOMILY THEME: UNDERSTANDING FAITH AND WISDOM
BY: Fr. Benny Tuazon
(Jn. 20:1-8)
In the day’s Gospel, we have a post resurrection scene where Peter and John, the evangelist whose feast we celebrate today, were Racing towards the tomb of Jesus upon hearing from Mary Magdalene that Jesus was not in the tomb. John noted in the Gospel that he was running faster than Peter. But even when he reached the tomb first, he waited for Peter. As soon as Peter arrived, he went in first followed by John.
This is symbolic and reflective of the relationship between faith and wisdom. John represents wisdom or intelligence. Peter is known for his faith. John, in his Gospel, specifically cited this detail in order to send the message that Christ events are faith events. Though reason and intelligence are necessary to dig into the mysteries of faith, acceptance can only happen through faith. Jesus said after Thomas believed, “Blessed are those who believe yet they did not see.” For those who believe, they will see. For those who see, faith may not follow.
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Scripture scholars say that the Gospel of John is highly philosophical. It follows that it is for the thinker than the practical. It is for the wise than the street smart. It is for the transcendent than the existential. That is the reason why John, in his Gospel, deals with the divinity of Jesus.
Compared to the other three Gospels, John focused and depicted Jesus as true God. He was the beloved disciple. His closeness to Jesus made him accessible to the divine Jesus. No wonder, of all the apostles, he was the one who bravely accompanied Mary, the mother of Jesus, in Calvary to visit the dying Messiah.
Faith and reason are complimentary. Reason is at the service of faith. Faith needs reason to sustain and cultivate the faith. Reason gives faith a reason to be pursued and be found relevant in life. The image of Peter and John racing towards the tomb is a reminder that faith comes first before understanding.
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