When we affix labels on others, we attempt to determine who the other is and often allow our pre-determined summation to affect the way we see and relate with them. People of one political party, religious group, social class or even peer group, often have a mind-set that the “other” group is unworthy or unacceptable. The people in today’s gospel question if the Messiah could come from Galilee (Jn. 7:41). Such a small and ‘backward’ place could not be honoured with the presence of the Liberator. Their pre-judgement already had some refusing to believe in Jesus. Are we just as guilty today? Do we allow our attitudes and labels to negatively affect our relationships, so that it colours who we accept and who we reject? Lord Jesus, may Your grace help me to truly love others, so that I may not be blinded by the labels I attach to them. Amen.

Blessings,

Fr. Howie

READINGS

http://usccb.org/bible/readings/031718.cfm