James Tissot, Woe unto You, Scribes and Pharisees, Brooklyn Museum
Hey, young Catholics! Let’s dive into a moment from the Gospel of John (8:21-30) that’s straight-up intense, like a spiritual wake-up call you didn’t see coming. Picture this: Jesus is standing in front of the Pharisees—religious big shots who think they’ve got it all figured out—and He hits them with words that cut deeper than any TikTok clapback. This isn’t just a conversation; it’s a challenge to everyone listening, including us today. Ready to unpack it? Let’s go.
Jesus Isn’t Playing Games
So, Jesus lays it out: “I’m going somewhere you can’t follow, and you’re going to be stuck in your sins.” Whoa, hold up—stuck in sin? That’s heavy. The Pharisees are confused, whispering among themselves, “Is He talking about… ending it all?” But Jesus isn’t talking about something physical. He’s pointing to a spiritual reality that’s way bigger. He’s headed to the Father, to a place of eternal life, and they’re not on the guest list unless they make a serious change.
For us, this is a gut check. Jesus is saying there’s a divide—between those who choose Him and those who don’t. It’s not about being “good enough” or checking off Catholic boxes like going to Mass or saying a quick prayer before bed. It’s about believing in Him, heart and soul. If we don’t, we’re choosing to stay in the mess of our sins, and that’s a road that doesn’t end well.
“You’re From Below, I’m From Above”
Then Jesus doubles down: “You’re tied to this world, but I’m from above.” Ouch. He’s calling out the Pharisees for being obsessed with earthly stuff—power, status, rules—while missing the bigger picture. Jesus isn’t just some wise teacher; He’s divine, the Son of God, the “I AM.” That’s a bold claim, straight from the Old Testament name for God Himself (Exodus 3:14). He’s saying, “I’m not like you. I’m the real deal, sent by the Father.”
For us young Catholics, this is a reminder to keep our eyes on what matters. It’s so easy to get caught up in trends, likes, or chasing the next big thing. But Jesus is calling us to aim higher—to live for eternity, not just the moment. That means prioritizing prayer, the Eucharist, and Confession, because those are the things that connect us to the “above” Jesus is talking about.
The Cross Changes Everything
The Pharisees are still clueless, asking, “Who even are you?” Jesus doesn’t back down. He tells them He’s been clear from the start, but they’re not getting it. Then He drops a prophecy: “When you lift up the Son of Man, you’ll know I AM.” He’s talking about the Cross—His ultimate act of love. When He’s crucified, it’ll click for some of them that He’s the real deal, the Savior sent by God.
This is huge for us. The Cross isn’t just a symbol we wear on a chain or see in church. It’s proof of who Jesus is and how much He loves us. Every time we look at a crucifix, it’s a reminder that Jesus didn’t do anything on His own—He followed the Father’s plan perfectly. And because He did, we can trust Him with our lives.
Why This Matters to You
Here’s the deal: Jesus ends this convo with a mic-drop moment. Because He spoke with such truth and love, “many came to believe in Him.” That’s the invitation for us too. He’s not just talking to some old-school religious leaders; He’s talking to you. Are you going to believe in Him? Not just “yeah, I’m Catholic” believe, but really believe—enough to let Him change how you live, what you chase, and who you are?
Being a young Catholic isn’t always easy. The world’s loud, and it’s tempting to blend in. But Jesus is calling you to stand out, to choose Him over the noise. Hit up Adoration, crack open your Bible, or talk to a priest about what’s holding you back. Jesus is with you, just like the Father was with Him. He’s not leaving you alone in this.
Let’s Wrap It Up
This Gospel moment is a game-changer. Jesus isn’t sugarcoating the truth—He’s laying out the stakes: believe in Him, or stay stuck in sin. But He’s also showing us the way to something better—life with Him, now and forever. So, what’s it going to be? Are you ready to say yes to the One who’s calling you to something bigger?
Prayer Challenge: Next time you’re at Mass, look at the crucifix and ask Jesus to help you believe in Him more deeply. Then take one step—maybe go to Confession or pray a Rosary—to grow closer to Him this week.
Stay bold, stay Catholic, and keep chasing the “above”!
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