Today’s gospel reading shows one of the most clear explanations by Jesus that He is God and equal to the Father. Jesus states, “For just as the Father raises the dead and gives life, so also does the Son give life to whomever he wishes,” (John 5:21). 

Only God has the power over life and death, and for Jesus to give life to whoever He wishes demonstrates His divine power. He even goes further to say He, the Son, has been given authority over the judgment of souls and that His Word is that which will save.
Isaiah shows this connection between God and Jesus even further by God stating the Lord will help His people on the day of salvation. By Jesus saying He can render judgment, He puts himself in the position of withholding or giving salvation—a task again only God can do.

Yet, with all this talk of mighty power, authority, and justice, Isaiah tells us that our Lord, shown beautifully through the life of Jesus, is a God of mercy, tenderness, and love. We are reminded, “Can a mother forget her infant, be without tenderness for the child of her womb? Even should she forget, I will never forget you,” (Isaiah 49:15). Jesus did not come into the world as a tyrant to crush us with God’s might, but as a loving servant.

Let us reflect on some ways God has given earthly authority us. How do we use this power to further His kingdom? What are some stumbling blocks that cause us to act selfishly? By our baptism, God sends us into the world with a clear mission. Though following the words of Jesus, let us humbly proclaim: "I cannot do anything on my own—I do not seek my own will but the will of the one who sent me."

What are some stumbling blocks that cause me to act selfishly?

Lord, help us to remember that we cannot do anything ourselves, but only through you and your will. Amen.