Give and receive witness to the truth of Jesus Christ: Those are two key messages in today’s readings. 

Joy, hope, and doubt are all part of each person’s journey of faith.

When it comes to the truth of Jesus’ life, death, and Resurrection, Jack Nicholson’s oft-quoted line from the movie A Few Good Men comes to mind: “You want the truth? You can’t handle the truth!”

Today’s readings carry the sorrow of the world. The false accusations, denials, betrayals, and beatings Jesus faced are heartbreaking.

Belief is a life-and-death issue for Jesus.

We are called, appointed, anointed by God to see the light and lead others out of darkness.

Aren’t the readings this week about the journey of faith? The Israelites in the desert, with some stubbornness, come to trust in the God who really is with them and saves them.

Where have you borne the “hardships” for the sake of the gospel Saint Paul writes of in Romans? What were or are they? How does God strengthen you in the face of difficulties?

The first reading this week offers a meditation on the origin of sin. The writer doesn’t so much explain why sin came into the world as tell a story about its entry. The disobedience of Adam and Eve grows out of their breaking trust in God.

Be holy is the simple message of today's readings.