The Daily Office for January 25, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 119:49-72
Genesis 16:1-14
Hebrews 9:15-28
John 5:19-29
Reading (John 5:19-29)
Reflection
In this passage Jesus continues his claim to be equal with God. He states that whatever the Father does, he does the same. Because of the Father’s love, the Father shows him all things. Jesus further says that the Father will show Him greater works than the healing of the impotent man.
Two of the greater works are then listed: the raising of the dead and the pronouncing of judgment. The raising of the dead refers both to a physical and spiritual accomplishment. The former occurs through resurrection and the latter through regeneration. Second, the Father does not set apart from the Son in pronouncing judgment, but has committed all judgment to him. The raising of the dead and the judgment are closely related. One day all the dead will be raised to stand before Christ in judgment. If you accept Christ as your savior and believes in the Father's words, then you have already passed from death to everlasting life and will not receive condemnation and judgment.
Collect for the Day
Almighty God, who caused the light of the gospel to shine throughout the world through the preaching of your servant Saint Paul: grant that we who celebrate his wonderful conversion may follow him in bearing witness to your truth; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.