St. John Neumann

Read: 1 Jn 3: 11-21 Jn 1: 43-51

“We know that we have passed from death to life because we love our brothers. Whoever does not love remains in death. Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life remaining in him.” (1 Jn 3:14-15)

With death, we await a metamorphosis from this temporal life to a perfect life of love in the eternal Kingdom of God.

Jesus tells us that the wonderful life for which we wait should begin here and now. Our earthly life is like a seed that germinates and begins to burst forth in the soil, but only grows tall and flowers on the other side (Mk 4:30-32).

This mysterious life, which will be transformed into something altogether greater in His heavenly kingdom, is a gift from God.

“For just as the Father raises the dead and gives life, so also does the Son give life to whomever he wishes.” (Jn 5:21)

“I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes in the one who sent me has eternal life and will not come to condemnation, but has passed from death to life.” (Jn 5:24)

The sign or manifestation that the seed of eternal life thrives within us is love, not some theoretical love, but rather a real and true love that is lived out through our goodness and sacrifice for our neighbor.

Reflection and commentary

Psalm 16:11 “You will show me the path to life, abounding joy in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever.”

St. John Neumann, d. 1860; missionary from Bohemia; C.Ss.R. bishop of Philadelphia; known for his holiness and learning; promoter of parochial schools; authored two German catechisms; first American bishop canonized (1977).