The Daunting Task

Others said, “This is the Christ.” But others said, “The Christ will not come from Galilee, will he? "Look and see that no prophet arises from Galilee.”
In today's Gospel reading from John 7:40-53, again we see the Pharisees doubting who Jesus is. This, as we have seen has happened before on a number of occasions, even after Jesus had performed healing and miracles right before their eyes. Today they are going back to their Scriptures and pulling out their disclaimer cards that the Christ does not come from Galilee. Obviously they did not do their homework, for Jesus was born in Bethlehem and was a descendant of David. The critics of Christianity, who are many, are just as blind as the Pharisees. Their arguments are based on false premises and notions, constructed from a narrow perspective. Their logic and defense often comes from a philosophical mindset of belief that they are not even aware they are supporting. Here are three beliefs among many, that are, as St. Paul once wrote, "stumbling blocks" for the modern man: Empiricism - the belief that only observable things are true. Utilitarianism -only things that produce are useful. Sensualism - if it doesn't bring pleasure it is not good. These three beliefs are now ingrained in the minds of people growing up in America in the 21st century. I say ingrained because they have become so much a part of our culture that for most it is laughable to think contrary. That is why Christianity looks so foolish in the eyes of many. These three beliefs which are not true and are supported by the number one precept: all truth is subjective, nothing is absolutely true are real stumbling blocks. This makes it extremely difficult to make the case for Jesus Christ. Satan has been very successful in blinding humanity. Jesus said "An evil and unfaithful generation seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it." He also said "You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do." He also said "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." This is what why I believe that we must as Catholics teach our youth to think philosophically, to use reason to combat the lies of the world. Getting through to young people is a daunting task and it falls squarely on our shoulders. Yet we can ask for the strength of the Holy Spirit who can and will teach you everything.