Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Father Anthony Ynzon SVD – Christ the King Seminary, Quezon City
Friday 4th Week of Lent
Introduction
When I first shared my desire to enter the seminary, my grandmother mildly scolded my mother for allowing me to “court the dangers of the priesthood.” Her concern was rooted in love. She wondered why I could not simply live a “normal” life. That same question echoes in the Gospel, where the disciples worried about Jesus attending the Feast of Tabernacles despite the risk of hostility and even death.
Jesus and the Feast of Tabernacles
The Feast of Tabernacles (Deuteronomy 16:13–16; Leviticus 23:34) commemorated God’s protection of Israel during their desert journey. As a faithful Jew, Jesus longed to honor the Father by celebrating this feast. Though danger awaited Him, He chose obedience and trust. His courage came not from recklessness but from confidence in God’s protection.
Faith Amid Risk
This lesson resonates today. Christians in countries hostile to the faith know the risks of practicing openly, yet they also know the assurance of God’s presence. Likewise, those who respond to the call of priesthood, those who testify to truth, and those who struggle to uphold goodness face tremendous challenges. But like Jesus, they draw courage from God Himself.
Reflection
Our families may worry when we choose paths that seem dangerous or unconventional. Yet discipleship is never about safety alone. It is about fidelity. Jesus teaches us that honoring God sometimes means walking into risk — but never alone. God’s protection accompanies those who seek Him.
Conclusion
The courage to follow Christ does not come from ourselves but from God. As Jesus showed at the Feast of Tabernacles, honoring the Father is worth every risk. May we, too, learn to trust in God’s protection and display the courage that only He can give.
“Lord, grant me the courage to follow You even when the path is risky. Teach me to trust in Your protection and to honor You with my life.”
