06th Sunday of Easter: May 25, 2025
Readings: Acts 15:1–2, 22–29; Psalm 67:2–3, 5–6, 8; Revelation 21:10–14, 22–23; John 14:23–29
What is it that belief makes it believable? What is it that believing Jesus the Son of God makes it believable? It is Jesus Christ himself. It is Jesus who makes himself believable through his words and deeds. As we almost conclude the Easter Season, Jesus continues to fascinate us. In him we find everything, the words of eternal life. Because he is the Word sent by God to be revealed in the human form. The liturgical readings on this Sunday especially the Gospel passage, convince us that Jesus is the person whom we must believe.
1. God’s Presence in Absence
Chapter 14 of the Gospel of John speaks about the intimacy that Father and Son enjoy. Whatever the Son does, it’s because of the Father. Both Father and Son are one. Jesus acknowledges that the Father is greater than the Son. In fact, it’s the Father who will send the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, the helper to be with the disciples once Jesus leaves them.
Jesus is a compassionate, caring person. He never leaves his own without any assistance or help. He is there with his disciples even in his physical absence. That is the caring nature of our God. We are cared for by our creator, even though we may think that God is distant and far away and does not show up when we need him badly. In fact, God has his own time. At opportune times, God shows himself with his assistance.
2. Christ Our Strength in a Hostile World
Often, we are troubled by the things of the world. Instead of putting our complete trust in the Lord, we trust in mortals, in worldly things. Jesus advises his disciples, “let your hearts not be troubled or afraid”. If Jesus has called us then he knows how to take care of us. He knows what to give us so that we are strong and courageous. The pre-plans of Jesus to protect us are immense and immeasurable. Jesus tells us that all this is because he loves us.
Jesus says in the resurrection narratives that I shall not leave you as orphans. The history of the church tells that the Christian communities throughout the world have suffered persecution and death only because they are Christians. Even today, we see this hatred towards Christians because they are a minority. Unfortunately, this is not the only case; even in developed countries, including in former Christian countries of Europe, hatred towards Christians is enormous. Yet we see holy Christians rising and giving witness to Christ. It is Jesus himself who fills them with courage and tenacity to offer even their blood. Jesus, who continues to inspire and instill courage to stand for truth and Justice even today.
3. The Holy Spirit: Our Advocate and Teacher
In the face of human inadequacy to stand for faith in Jesus or the values of the Kingdom, the only source that always accompanies us is the Holy Spirit. In dark moments of our lives, Jesus says, the Holy Spirit will strengthen us. Down the ages, the Holy Spirit has strengthened and given the courage to stand for faith in Jesus Christ.
In moments of doubt, forgetfulness, fear, or suffering, the Holy Spirit is our divine memory, our spiritual compass. He doesn’t just teach us doctrine but helps us understand and live the Word in the concrete struggles of our lives. In their grief and fear, He sows the seed of hope. In our moments of darkness, silence, or when God seems absent, the Holy Spirit strengthens and never abandons us. This is a hope that transcends persecution, misunderstanding, and even death.
Questions for self-reflection
- How do I express my love for Jesus in daily life?
- Do I turn to the Holy Spirit for guidance when I am uncertain or in need of wisdom?
- What are the fears or worries currently troubling my heart?
- How often do I seek the Spirit's help in prayer, decisions, or relationships?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the promise of Your peace. Teach us to love You deeply and to keep Your word faithfully. May our hearts be homes where the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit dwell. In times of fear or loneliness, send us the Advocate to guide, comfort, and strengthen us. Grant us the courage to trust Your presence even when You seem hidden, and may we live with hearts untroubled, grounded in the peace You alone can give. We make this prayer in Jesus' Holy Name, Amen.
- Olvin Veigas, SJ
22 May 2025
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