Jesus’ Love Letter
John chapters 14-17 is one of my favorite parts of the Gospels to read. I think of it as Our Lord’s love letter to us. These were the last recorded words with his apostles before his Passion. They reveal his heart to us. He knew what was coming. Jesus knew how it would shake their faith. He knew it would hurt. Knowing all of this, these are the words he chose to say, and these are the words his apostles remembered. His message: I am not leaving you alone; my love will be with you.
John chapter 14 begins the discourse with Jesus telling them he is leaving to the Father, but what will keep us together is love. Then he says that the “Advocate” will come. John chapter 15 speaks about the vine and the branches- remaining United to the vine to bear fruit. He also speaks about love: “love one another as I have loved you” and “remain in my love.” And in this chapter Jesus calls us friends: “You are my friends if you do what I command you.” The chapter ends with a reminder that the world will persecute us if we follow him.
We Are Not Alone
Then John chapter 16 reaffirms that we are not alone. He tells us he will come to us in a new way, through the Advocate whom he will send. Today’s Gospel is taken from this part. This Advocate, the Holy Spirit, God’s love, comes to us to inspire and guide, to teach and give courage.
In the first reading it is easy to see the apostles Paul and Silas acting from the Holy Spirit-despite being persecuted- and God’s fidelity to save them and give them the opportunity to continue to preach and to love as He has loved. He does not leave them alone. They are not abandoned.
Come, Holy Spirit
As we prepare for Pentecost on June 5, today’s readings remind us that we are not alone. Jesus does not abandon us. Let’s ask the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Love, to come to us and give us the courage to follow Jesus who has loved us so much. Let us also ask Mary, His Mother and ours, to pray for us that we may receive the grace of final perseverance, that He has prepared a place for us and will come back to bring us to himself.
God bless!
Nicole
